Aaron Rodgers responds to criticism of Mike McCarthy: “It’s ridiculous”

With halfback James Starks healthy again after missing four games following knee surgery, McCarthy called five runs and seven passes on the first 12 plays, then pulled the plug on the running game and went back to a quick-rhythm, short-passing game with the Packers down 21-0. The Redskins will come away with a victory after being able to score on the Packers defense easily.

As it turns out, Aaron Rodgers thinks it’s ridiculous when people scrutinize Mike McCarthy, too.

The Packers hold a 18-13-1 record against the Redskins all-time in regular season matchups. They could really go any number of ways with their first few picks. If they can come away from these games with a win or two, the Packers may have a chance to control their own destiny, as they finish out the season facing the Chicago Bears, Vikings and Lions. Michael may not be available for the padded practice this morning, which would give him just one practice to learn the offense before the team plays Washington Sunday night. “You’ve got to bring it and be on it every snap for 60 minutes'”. The Packers need this game more, and when you add in the fact that Green Bay has covered in 5 of the last 7 meetings, the points definitely hold some value. Maintaining a consistent pass rush was a goal from training camp, and this is another major test.

On the other side of the ball, Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers has struggled for most of the season.

Nelson: By most accounts, Nelson isn’t back to his pre-ACL tear form, yet he’s still on pace for 88 catches (second most of his career), 1,128 yards (fourth most) and 14 touchdowns (second most).

Norman didn’t stop with just Rodgers. “I know how he works, so I’m looking forward to it”.

Green Bay is entering desperation mode. Lately, the Packers have been falling behind early. Washington might have to sacrifice some big-play potential and count on RB Rob Kelley to simply grind out tough yards and keep the Packers defense on the field. The previous week, the Colts ran the opening kickoff back 99 yards for a score.

Christine Michael said: “Everything starts with running the football”.

The Packers have plenty of needs to address on their roster next offseason. Without even the pretense of a running game the last four weeks, Rodgers ranks in the bottom half of the league in passer rating, completion percentage and yards per attempt.