NFL
The Good, Bad And Ugly From The Packers’ Miraculous Win Over The Bears
The Good, Bad And Ugly From The Packers’ Miraculous Win Over The Bears
The 209th meeting between the Green Bay Packers and Chicago Bears had everything you could want.
Intensity. Drama. And last-second theatrics.
Green Bay defensive lineman Karl Brooks blocked a 46-yard Cairo Santos field goal attempt as time expired allowing Green Bay to escape Soldier Field with a 20-19 win.
“I’m visualizing myself blocking the kick,” Brooks said afterwards. “And like I said, I just wanted it more. I just fired off the ball and wanted to get a win.”
The Packers won their 11th straight game in this series that dates back to 1921. That’s now the longest winning streak in the history of this rivalry.
Green Bay head coach Matt LaFleur also stayed perfect against Chicago, improving to 11-0 in his career against the Bears.
Green Bay improved to 51-15 against the Bears since the start of the 1992 season and now leads this historic series 108-95-6.
Here’s the ‘Good, Bad and Ugly’ from the Packers’ latest win in this lopsided rivalry.
THE GOOD
KARL BROOKS: The second-year defensive lineman from Bowling Green got his left middle finger on a Cairo Santos field goal kick as time expired, allowing his team to improve to 7-3. The Bears fell to 4-6 and lost their fourth straight game.
“It was just an unbelievable feeling,” Brooks said. “At first when I touched it, I didn’t think I got enough of it and it fell short and that’s when I really celebrated, so it was fun, though, for sure. It was cool. It was a good experience.”
The Packers spotted something on film early last week and believed they could come up with a block.
“Inside,” Packers defensive tackle Kenny Clark said of the Bears’ weakness. “Inside at the guards.”
That’s exactly what happened.
Brooks and fellow defensive tackle T.J. Slaton collapsed the middle. Brooks got his 32-inch left arm up and got denied Santos and the Bears.
“We knew there was a high possibility of blocking a kick,” Packers guard Sean Rhyan said. “We didn’t know where in the game it was going to come from, it just happened to be the last one of the game, the most important one. And we got it.”
THE BEAT GOES ON: Since the start of the 1992 season, Green Bay is now a remarkable 51-15 against the Bears — a whopping .773 winning percentage. Green Bay head coach Matt LaFleur has played a huge role in the dominance, going 11-0 in his 5 1/2 years with the Packers.
Mike Holmgren started the fun by going 12-2 against the Bears (.857) between 1992-1998. Holmgren also won his final 10 games against Chicago.
Ray Rhodes was 1-1 (.500), Mike Sherman was 8-4 (.667), then Mike McCarthy was a sensational 19-7 (.731) that included a win over the Bears in the 2010 NFC Championship Game.
Joe Philbin was 0-1 as Green Bay’s interim head coach in 2018, and now LaFleur has taken things to another level.
“I’m not worried about what’s happened in the past,” LaFleur said. “It’s one game. It’s great to come away with a win when you don’t feel like you necessarily played your best, but that’s a competitive football team. The margin of error in this league is so minimal.”
SOLID START: Green Bay put together an impressive 8-play, 70-yard touchdown drive to open the game.
The Packers ran the ball five times, threw it three and Love capped the march with a 15-yard touchdown pass to Jayden Reed. On the TD play, the Packers went hurry-up when they saw the Bears had 12 men on the field and Love and Reed hooked up for a score to give Green Bay a 7-0 lead.
CHRISTIAN WATSON: Green Bay’s third-year wideout has been quiet all season and entered the day with just 16 receptions for 233 yards.
But Watson had four receptions and set a new career-high with 150 receiving yards.
On Green Bay’s game-winning touchdown drive, Watson had a diving catch, wasn’t touched, then had the wherewithal to spring up and race 60 yards to Chicago’s 14-yard line.
Two plays later, Jordan Love plowed in from a 1-yard out to give the Packers a 20-19 lead.
Watson also had a 48-yard second half reception down to the Bears’ 8.
“Obviously I think it was a focus for us coming into this week was to try to keep getting him the ball, getting him some touches,” Packers quarterback Jordan Love said of Watson. “Definitely a guy that we feel like we can keep trying to get him the ball and give him some of those opps down the field and obviously when we do, he had a really big catch, a contested catch, and went up and made a play. So I think it was a big time day for him.”
BRENTON COX: Second-year defensive end Brenton Cox figures to get more playing time after the trade of Preston Smith last week.
So far, so good.
Cox had his first career sack when he blew up Caleb Williams for a 10-yard loss. Cox also dumped Chicago running back D’Andre Swift for a 3-yard loss.
“It feels good,” Cox said. “Just taking advantage of the opportunity. I knew I had a lot on my plate, so just going out there and playing hard.”
THIS AND THAT: Daniel Whelan’s first punt was 47 yards and perfectly angled to the left corner where Corey Ballentine downed it at the 5. … Running back Josh Jacobs had 134 yards from scrimmage and a touchdown.
THE BAD
CONTAINING CALEB: Chicago rookie quarterback Caleb Williams entered the day averaging 26.2 rushing yards per game. His high-water mark was 56 rushing yards in Week 4 against Jacksonville.
But Williams absolutely shredded Green Bay’s defense, rushing for 70 yards on nine carries. Williams averaged a whopping 7.7 yards per carry
“They had a lot of QB runs, QB-designed runs,” defensive end Rashan Gary said. “I said before the game he’s able to extend plays on his feet and he did that well today. I was surprised by how much designed runs there were, but that comes with having a new OC. There were some new things that we didn’t know that they were going to do and they did. So, it is what it is. We know now. Going into the next game, we’ll be better.”
END OF THE STREAK: Chicago scored its first touchdown in 26 drives in the final moments of the first half when Roschon Johnson ran over Quay Walker for a 1-yard score. That gave the Bears their first lead of the day at 10-7.
Interestingly, Johnson had the Bears’ last touchdown back in Week 8.
QUAY WALKER: The light has just never fully gone on for Green Bay’s third-year linebacker — and this game was more of the same.
Walker had a chance to sack Caleb Williams in the third quarter and inexplicably seemed to stop. Walker had Williams dead to rights on a fourth-and-1 play in the third quarter, but whiffed and the Bears quarterback scurried for a first down.
Walker had running back Roschon Johnson squared up on the goal line late in the first half, but Johnson was the more powerful player and carried Walker into the endzone.
Walker was a first round draft pick in 2022, but hasn’t lived up to that his lofty draft status. Sunday was the latest example.
JAIRE ALEXANDER: The Packers’ seventh year cornerback is a problem — on the field and on the books.
Alexander, who still has two years left on his four-year, $84 million contract, is the NFL’s third-highest paid cornerback. The problem is he’s a part-time player these days.
Alexander had missed 27 of Green Bay’s last 60 games heading into Sunday’s contest against Chicago. Alexander, who hasn’t played since Week 6 against Jacksonville, was questionable all week with a knee injury.
The Packers thought they were getting good news when Alexander showed enough in pregame warm-ups and was active. But Alexander lasted just 10 plays before leaving with that same knee injury.
It’s too late into the season to do anything with Alexander and his hefty contract. But it will be a top priority this offseason.
THIS AND THAT: Romeo Doubs had a costly second quarter drop on a third-and-3 that would have given the Packers a first down. … The Bears went 5-for-7 on third downs in the first half and 9-of-16 for the game.
THE UGLY
DEFENSELESS: The Bears had scored just 27 points in their last three games — a paltry average of 9.0.
Chicago gave up nine sacks last week. And the Bears fired their offensive coordinator this week.
In every way, shape and form, they were a mess.
Facing Green Bay’s mediocre defense will help a team get healthy, though.
Chicago piled up 391 yards. The Bears went 9-of-16 on third downs (56.3%). And Chicago held the ball 36 ½ minutes.
“We’ve just got to clean it up, man,” safety Xavier McKinney said. “It’s tough because I think that we can play way better ball than what we did today, but it’s hard to win in this league. When you do win, you’ve got to be somewhat happy about the win because it’s hard to win. But also, you’ve got to know that there’s a lot of things to improve on and we’ve got to do that moving forward.”
Green Bay’s defense has become completely reliant on forcing turnovers. If they can’t take the ball away, they struggle to get stops.
On Sunday, the Packers didn’t have a single takeaway and watched the Bears march up and down the field all afternoon.
THROWING IT ALL AWAY: The Packers had an impressive 7 ½ minute drive that ate up half the second quarter, but produced no points.
Green Bay drove to the Bears’ 5 and had a second-and-1. That’s when things went awry.
First, left guard Elgton Jenkins was penalized five yards for being downfield illegally. Then wideout Jayden Reed was dumped for a 5-yard loss, setting up a third-and 11.
Jordan Love then overthrew Tucker Kraft and into the waiting arms of cornerback Terrell Smith, who corralled the pass for his first career interception.
“We had Tucker Kraft right there kind of on a pivot route and I missed him on the throw,” Love said. “Just missed high. Obviously sailed over his head and DB was right there to make a play on it. Just, bad throw.”
DOUBLING UP: The Bears turned a 7-3 deficit into a 13-7 lead by scoring a touchdown on their final drive of the first half and a field goal on their opening drive of the second half.
Chicago put together a 13 play, 76-yard drive to finish the first half and capped it with a 1-yard TD drive from Roschon Johnson. The Bears then drove 61 yards in 10 plays to open the second half and got a 27-yard field goal from Cairo Santos to take a 13-7 lead.
Chicago possessed the ball for roughly 10 ½ straight minutes in that time — 5:42 to end the first half and 4:43 to open the second half.
Four Saints veterans named the best players to wear their jersey numbers
The New Orleans Saints have a lot of questions surrounding their roster as they enter the 2025 season, but there are a handful of veterans who have proven to still be among the best in the NFL.
Cody Benjamin of CBS Sports recently released a list of the top players in the league at every jersey number from 0-99. There were four Saints players included: Alvin Kamara for No. 41, Demario Davis for No. 56, Juwan Johnson for No. 83 and Carl Granderson for No. 96.
Kamara doesn’t have very much competition for being representative of the No. 41 jersey. Other players there include Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight end Ko Kieft and Dallas Cowboys rookie defender Donovan Ezeiruaku. Even if there were other stars, it would be hard to finish ahead of Kamara, who could once again be one of the NFL’s best running backs this season.
The other players at No. 56 that stand out other than Davis are Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Alex Highsmith and Indianapolis Colts guard Quenton Nelson, both of whom are very good at football. Davis has finished with at least 100 tackles each year since coming to New Orleans and has earned the NFL’s respect as one of the best linebackers in the sport.
Johnson is still waiting for his true breakout campaign at tight end for the Saints, but he has shown flashes. Still, he is the right choice for No. 83, which is mostly several unproven tight ends and wide receivers.
There are a couple of other defensive linemen who share No. 96 with Granderson, but the only one with a real argument would maybe be New York Jets star Leonard Taylor III. Granderson will need to bring his sack numbers back up in 2025, but he still probably the right choice.
INCOMING: Kellen Moore Embarks On New Era For New Orleans Saints With Hopes Of Resurrecting Glory Day
Kellen Moore embarks on new era for New Orleans Saints with hopes of resurrecting glory days
The New Orleans Saints find themselves standing at the crossroads of hope and opportunity as they gear up for the 2024 season, following a disappointing campaign that concluded with a 5-12 record. The franchise has embraced the winds of change with the hiring of head coach Kellen Moore, signaling a commitment to rejuvenation. This offseason has been bustling with transformative moves that may well pave the way for a more promising future.
The current roster reflects a thoughtful blend of experienced veterans and eager newcomers, providing a strong foundation for growth. Talented additions like Tyler Shough and Kelvin Banks Jr. inject youthful dynamism into the squad, creating an environment ripe for progress. Despite the setbacks of the previous season, the NFC South remains relatively accessible, with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as the only team boasting a winning record at 10-7. This landscape opens a window of opportunity for the Saints to reestablish their competitive edge in the division.
With an emphasis on health and stability, the Saints stand a genuine chance to approach .500 this season. The progress of key players, particularly quarterbacks like Shough and Spencer Rattler, will be vital as they aim to bridge the competitive gap with Tampa Bay.
A Need for Defensive Reinforcements
To enhance their prospects further, strengthening the defense—particularly the secondary—should be a priority. The cornerback position has emerged as a critical area for improvement, leading to speculation surrounding the potential signing of veteran cornerback Stephon Gilmore. His addition could inject both talent and leadership into a young and developing defense.
Gilmore, a two-time All-Pro and the 2019 AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year, has shown signs of decline recently but remains a force to be reckoned with. In his last season with the Minnesota Vikings, he recorded nine pass breakups, 49 tackles, and one interception, showcasing his enduring capability. His extensive experience in high-stakes situations, underscored by a Super Bowl victory and five Pro Bowl selections, positions him as a significant asset for any franchise.
The Right Fit for a New Scheme
Under the guidance of new defensive coordinator Brandon Staley, the Saints will implement a hybrid defensive scheme mirroring the system in which Gilmore thrived during his time with the New England Patriots. This familiarity could facilitate a seamless transition for Gilmore, allowing him to maximize his contribution to the field.
Gilmore has also expressed a keen interest in mentoring younger players, which makes him an attractive candidate for a cornerback room eager for guidance. His presence would not only enhance the Saints’ defensive unit but also nurture the development of emerging talents like Alontae Taylor, ideally positioned for a slot role.
Bringing a player of Gilmore’s pedigree on board would markedly elevate the Saints’ defensive prowess, addressing one of the most vulnerable positions on the roster. As the team looks ahead to the upcoming season, the potential acquisition of a seasoned cornerback like Gilmore could serve as the crucial missing piece in their quest for supremacy within the NFC South. United by veteran experience and youthful zeal, the Saints are laying the groundwork for a season filled with potential and aspirations for greatness.
NFL
BREAKING: New Orleans Saints quarterback Spencer Rattler has announced an unprecedented act of generosity: he will donate his entire $20 million NFL signing
New Orleans Saints quarterback Spencer Rattler has announced an unprecedented act of generosity: he will donate his entire $20 million NFL signing
New Orleans, LA – July 1, 2025 – In a move that has sent shockwaves of admiration and inspiration throughout the sports world and beyond, New Orleans Saints quarterback Spencer Rattler has announced an unprecedented act of generosity: he will donate his entire $20 million NFL signing bonus to combat homelessness across the United States. This monumental decision, hailed as one of the most significant philanthropic gestures ever made by a professional athlete, transcends the game of football and sets a new benchmark for social responsibility.
Rattler, whose journey from highly touted high school prospect to NFL draftee has been closely watched, made the stunning announcement during a press conference that was initially expected to focus on the standard formalities of his new professional career. Instead, the young quarterback used the platform to declare his profound commitment to addressing one of society’s most pressing issues.
“From a very young age, I’ve been incredibly fortunate,” Rattler stated, his voice steady with conviction. “I’ve had a roof over my head, food on my table, and the unwavering support of my family and community. As I embark on this new chapter in my life, I felt a deep responsibility to use this incredible blessing to help those who are not as fortunate.”
The $20 million signing bonus, a substantial sum for any rookie, represents the initial financial security most professional athletes dream of. For Rattler to forgo it entirely for a charitable cause is a testament to his character and a profound understanding of his platform. His decision immediately drew comparisons to other notable acts of athletic philanthropy, but the sheer scale of this donation, particularly from a rookie, places it in a league of its own.
The funds will be allocated to a newly established foundation, “Rattler’s Road Home,” which will partner with established non-profit organizations across the country dedicated to providing shelter, resources, and pathways to stability for individuals experiencing homelessness. The foundation aims to support initiatives ranging from emergency housing and food assistance to job training programs, mental health services, and long-term transitional housing solutions.
“This isn’t just about handing out money; it’s about investing in solutions,” Rattler explained. “We want to work with organizations that have proven track records, that understand the complexities of homelessness, and that are committed to creating sustainable change. My goal is to help build a future where everyone has a place to call home.”
Rattler’s collegiate career at South Carolina was marked by resilience and a determination to prove his capabilities. After transferring from Oklahoma, he embraced the challenge of leading the Gamecocks, showcasing flashes of brilliance and a competitive fire that endeared him to fans. His leadership and performance, particularly in key moments, solidified his draft stock and ultimately led to his significant NFL contract. Now, his off-field actions are poised to leave an even more indelible mark.
The reaction from the NFL, his new team, and the wider public has been overwhelmingly positive. League officials praised Rattler’s selflessness, with many hoping his actions will inspire other athletes to consider similar large-scale philanthropic endeavors. Teammates, coaches, and former mentors have lauded his maturity and compassion, emphasizing that this act is entirely consistent with the person they know.
Spencer has always been a person of immense character,” commented [Name of NFL Head Coach/GM], Rattler’s new Saints coach/general manager. “This decision speaks volumes about who he is as a human being. We are incredibly proud to have him as part of our organization, not just for his talent on the field, but for the example he sets off it.”
Experts in philanthropy and social welfare have also weighed in, highlighting the potential impact of such a substantial donation. “A $20 million commitment can be truly transformative in the fight against homelessness,” said Dr. Eleanor Vance, a leading researcher on social policy. “It provides the kind of sustained funding necessary to scale up successful programs, innovate new solutions, and make a tangible difference in thousands of lives. Spencer Rattler’s generosity could inspire a new wave of giving.”
Rattler’s decision also brings much-needed attention to the issue of homelessness, which affects millions of people across the United States. By leveraging his newfound wealth and public platform, he is shining a spotlight on a crisis that often remains in the shadows, encouraging broader dialogue and action.
As Spencer Rattler prepares to embark on his professional football career, his legacy is already being shaped by an act of profound compassion. He has demonstrated that true success extends beyond personal gain, finding its deepest meaning in the ability to uplift and empower others. His $20 million pledge is not just a donation; it is a beacon of hope, a call to action, and a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have when they choose to lead with generosity and heart. The sports world has a new hero, and his impact will be felt far beyond the gridiron.
NFL NEWS: Aaron Rodgers confirms whether his next team will be Saints
After rumors linking him to New Orleans, Aaron Rodgers has finally spoken out about the Saints. His clear comments about the possibility of joining Kellen Moore shed light on his next move, leaving fans eager to see how the Steelers fit into the picture.
Rodgers has publicly confirmed that he will not play for the Saints. After rumors linking him to that team following Derek Carr’s retirement, there is now no doubt that New Orleans is not an option for the veteran quarterback. So, one step closer to the Pittsburgh Steelers.
During an event with Mike Stud in Austin, a woman asked Rodgers this about his future: “So, we are from about an hour south of New Orleans and, as you know, we don’t have a quarterback and you are a free agent now. Would you ever consider playing for the Saints and making us great again.”
The Super Bowl champion quarterback’s response was direct: “No. That’s the answer. I played there a couple of times, but, no. The answer is no. I’m too old. I don’t want to live in Louisiana. Sorry.”
What team is Aaron Rodgers going to?
One thing is certain. Aaron Rodgers is not going to the New Orleans Saints, as the veteran quarterback publicly spoke about that option for the first time. Now, everything seems to indicate that his next team will be the Pittsburgh Steelers.
However, given Rodgers’ delay in making a decision, one option that still can’t be ruled out is retirement. Aaron looked very relaxed during the event and, although he dropped hints about a possible move to Pittsburgh, the reality is that nothing is set in stone.
Who is the QB for the Saints right now?
What’s interesting is that, amid all the uncertainty surrounding the situation, there is at least one official answer: the Saints have no chance of signing Aaron Rodgers. As of now, their starting quarterback is between Tyler Shough and Spencer Rattler.
“The Saint of the Bayou: Drew Brees’ Enduring Legacy in New Orleans”
In the city of New Orleans, where jazz flows like the Mississippi River and Mardi Gras reigns supreme, one name stands tall among the sports pantheon: Drew Brees. The legendary quarterback’s impact on the city and the New Orleans Saints transcends the gridiron, weaving itself into the very fabric of the community.
A Saint Among Saints
Drew Brees’ journey to New Orleans was nothing short of serendipitous. After a storied collegiate career at Purdue University, Brees was drafted by the San Diego Chargers in 2001. Though he showed flashes of brilliance, it wasn’t until he donned the black and gold of the Saints in 2006 that his career truly flourished. With the guidance of coach Sean Payton and a talented roster, Brees transformed the Saints into a perennial powerhouse.
Super Bowl XLIV Champion
The crowning jewel of Brees’ career is undoubtedly the Saints’ Super Bowl XLIV victory over the Indianapolis Colts in 2010. With 25 seconds remaining, Brees led a masterful drive, culminating in Lance Calloway’s game-sealing touchdown reception. The city erupted in jubilation, and Brees, overcome with emotion, celebrated with his teammates and the delirious Saints faithful.
The Numbers Speak
Brees’ statistical résumé is staggering: NFL record-holder for career passing yards (77,848), completions (7,142), and attempts (10,568). He boasts 571 touchdown passes and a passer rating of 97.8. These numbers only scratch the surface of his greatness, as Brees’ intelligence, work ethic, and leadership elevated those around him.
Brees’ Impact on and off the Field
Beyond the stats, Brees’ impact on the city and its people cannot be overstated. Through the Brees Dream Foundation, he has supported numerous charitable initiatives, including the construction of the Brees Academy, a charter school in New Orleans. His tireless work ethic and commitment to community service have inspired countless fans and teammates alike.
A Lasting Legacy
As Brees’ playing career drew to a close, the city of New Orleans prepared to bid farewell to its beloved quarterback. Though his retirement marked the end of an era, Brees’ legacy will endure. The Saints’ iconic stadium, previously known as the Mercedes-Benz Superdome, was renamed the Caesars Superdome in 2021, but many fans still affectionately refer to it as “The Dome” or “The Brees Dome.”
The Future of the Saints
With Brees’ departure, the Saints have entered a new era, one marked by transition and rebirth. Though the quarterback position will undoubtedly be filled by a new face, the foundation laid by Brees will remain. His leadership, work ethic, and commitment to excellence will continue to inspire the Saints’ organization and its fans.
A Saint Forever
As the years pass, Drew Brees’ legend will only continue to grow. His name will be etched alongside other New Orleans sports icons, like Jackie Robinson and Deuce McAllister. Though he may no longer take the field, Brees’ impact on the city, the Saints, and the NFL will be felt for generations to come.
In the city of New Orleans, where jazz and joy flow freely, Drew Brees’ legacy will forever be woven into the fabric of the community. He may have hung up his cleats, but the Saint of the Bayou will always be revered as a hero, a champion, and a true leader.
Drew Brees’ Career Highlights:
– *Super Bowl XLIV Champion
– NFL Record-Holder for Career Passing Yards
– *7 Pro Bowl appearances
– *4 NFL passing yards leader
– *2 NFL passer rating leader
– *Brees Dream Foundation
The legacy of Drew Brees will continue to inspire and influence the city of New Orleans and the Saints organization for years to come. His impact on the NFL and the community is immeasurable, cementing his place as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.