MT5: Packers well-positioned as we move into December

[Cheesehead]

On the first Saturday of every month, Mark will write about a topic of interest to Packers fans and the organization, and then answer five fan questions. Fans are encouraged to email Mark with their name and hometown at: MurphyTakes5@packers.com.


When our schedule was announced last spring, two things really stood out. First, we had a front-loaded schedule with five of the first seven games at home. It was clear that we needed to get off to a fast start, but with a new head coach, I wasn’t sure how realistic it was to expect this type of start. Second, we would face a difficult stretch in October and November with four out of five games on the road (with the bye week in this stretch of games, we had only one home game between Oct. 20 and Dec. 8).


Head Coach Matt LaFleur has obviously done an excellent job, and as we head into December, we are well-positioned to finish the season strong. We started the season fast – going 7-1 to open the season and 5-1 at home so far. Also, we weathered the tough five-game stretch, going 3-2. Now, we haven’t clinched anything yet, and we have to focus each week on that week’s opponent, but it is great to be in this position, playing meaningful games in December after missing the playoffs the last two years. It should be an exciting December for the Packers.


Now, on to your questions…


Jacob from Ironwood, MI


Hello Mark,


I have been able to have my questions answered by Wes, Mike (mid-week chat) and even the infamous Vic. You have been the elusive feather in my cap, however. My question is about how you temper your personal expectations in a successful season such as this. I can’t imagine how difficult it is to balance taking your best shot this season, while also managing cap space and preparing for next year. How do you manage to cheer on your team with passion, just like us fans, while understanding that we may not win it all this year and continue planning for future seasons? Thanks for your time.


Here’s the proverbial feather in your cap, Jacob, and welcome to Murphy Takes Five. You ask a great question. While we are always trying to win the Super Bowl, we are also planning for the future and want to ensure we can remain competitive in the future. That said, though, you are never quite sure when you might have your best chance to win a Super Bowl. So much in the league is dependent on injuries. If we field a competitive team every year, hopefully, there will be years where everything comes together and we can win a Super Bowl championship.