So, let's see...a team (I think you know I'm talking about the Packers) that made the NFC Championship Game last year is now 5-6...and needs to win its division just to make the postseason.  Meanwhile, that team's legendary former quarterback (of course we're talking about Brett Favre here) has his new team 8-3, is playing at an MVP level, and has the Jets at least being considered as a possible Super Bowl contender.

So you want to know how tight things are getting in Green Bay?  After some direct questioning of Mike McCarthy about the status of Derrick Frost on the roster, a member of the Packers PR staff pulls one of the media members aside, and berates him for asking "disrespectful" questions.

Ladies and gentlemen, it's a question all of us...media, fans, casual observers have asked.  Believe me, just imagine if the Giants were on the verge of not making the playoffs, after making the Super Bowl.  You don't think hard questions wouldn't be asked in New York?  I think for the most part, the Packers have gotten far too much of the benefit of the doubt in a seaon that's been terribly inconsistant.

I don't believe in the hatchet media mentality, but the Packers have gotten the "media candyland" treatment for far too long.  You deserve answers to tough questions...my paycheck isn't signed by any member of the team...and I don't wave green and gold pom-pons, so you'll get as much straight truth as I can deliver.  And shame on the Packers for trying to browbeat people just because they don't agree with their questions or opinions.

Now that I'm off my soapbox, on to the prediction segment!

When the Packers have the ball:  As proven last week against the Falcons, if you have a special back (like Michael Turner), the Panthers run defense can be had.  Ryan Grant isn't special, but he's good enough to do some damage.  Also look for Aaron Rodgers to have a much more efficient performance after 3 picks last week.  And I still shudder to think what Derrick Frost will do outdoors.

When the Panthers have the ball:  They have playmakers.  The secondary better regain its confidence quickly, or Steve Smith will have them screaming for their mommas again.  And DeAngelo Williams is a home run hitter.  Jake Delhomme is streaky...he didn't throw a pick last week, so I'm thinking the Packers get at least one and return it for a score.  Plus Mike McCarthy was the Saints offensive coordinator when Delhomme was there, so he knows how he ticks.  Pass rush?  Pass rush?  Anyone know who the Packers second leading sacker is this year, behind Aaron Kampman's 7.5?  Try Cullen Jenkins, who has 2.5...and has been hurt and out since September 28!

Prediction:   The consistently inconsistent Packers do it again.  The Panthers haven't been playing well, barely beating the Raiders and Lions before getting worked by the Falcons.  It's 30-17 Packers in a bit of a rout.  And since the Bears play in Minnesota, somebody will be tied with the Pack for 2nd in the NFC North by day's end.

Emails encourged at lallan@todaystmj4.com