The Green Bay Packers play their third preseason game tonight at home against the
Mason Crosby
Seattle Seahawks. Time is running out on players still trying to make the 53-man roster.
Following are some of the things I’ll be looking forward to seeing in tonight’s game.
Kicking battle
Mason Crosby appeared to be back in control after going 3 for 3 in the field goal department against the St. Louis Rams last week. But Crosby missed three field goals in practice on Wednesday and the battle with Giorgio Tavecchio is back on again. Another stumble by Crosby and he could be done in Green Bay. There’s always the chance that the Packers kicker in 2013 might not be on the roster.
Backup quarterback
It appears that Mike McCarthy just isn’t comfortable going into the season with Graham Harrell as his backup quarterback. The coach is excited about Young’s experience in the NFL. It might take Young awhile to learn the offense, but the Packers just may take the gamble. Harrell has two more preseason games to chance McCarthy’s mind on the matter.
Tight end
After Jermichael Finley, it’s anybody’s guess. D.J. Williams has been good in practice but inconsistent in games. He may need to be spectacular in the final two games to avoid getting the pink slip. Andrew Quarless just returned to practice. He’s been hurt and not available for so long that it might be difficult for him to find a spot on the roster. Matthew Mulligan is a very good blocking tight end, but he hurt his elbow and that might get him cut.
Ryan Taylor returned this week and is one of the top special teams performers which bodes well for him. Brandon Bostick and Jake Stoneburner are both young and lack experience but both had good training camps.
Right tackle
Don Barclay would appear to have that job close to locked up. It would likely take a bad performance at this time for Barclay not to start at right tackle.
Johnny Jolly
Johnny Jolly has this team made, but he’s made steady improvement with each passing week. He’s made plays and has been very exciting to watch. I’m anxious to see what he pulls out of his hat tonight.
Running game
The Packers ground attack against the Seattle defense. The Seahawks have allowed just 5-rushing first downs in the preseason and are allowing just 2.7-yards per carry on the ground. This will be a good test for the Packers offensive line and the running backs.