Like practically all of Packer nation, Jerry Kramer’s burning question entering the 2023 season was how the new starting quarterback would fare.
“Hey, that was a big question mark,” Kramer said in a phone interview from his Green Bay hotel room Friday afternoon, where former Packer guard from the Lombardi era just finished autographing approximately 200 items.
“One or two games does not a season make, but I’m liking what I see so far. Big shoes to fill for Jordan Love, but I thought he’s played well, especially against the Bears, and again last week.”
Albeit an 0-6 passing stretch in the fourth quarter as a 12-point evaporated as the Falcons ran through Green Bay defense and rallied for a 25-24 win in Atlanta.
No one expects perfection from Love or any player, but to coin a Vince Lombardi phrase, you can reach excellence in the pursuit.
In the Packers 1-1 start, Love’s cool demeanor and performance have been impressive: 29 completions in 52 attempts for 396 yards and six touchdowns with no interceptions.
Green Bay’s first-round draft choice in 2020 has joined some elite company in becoming the fourth quarterback in the past decade to throw three touchdowns or more in the season’s first two games—without an interception. Only Patrick Mahomes, Tom Brady, and Peyton Manning have accomplished that feat.
“I’ve sure liked what I’ve seen,” Kramer said. “Doing it consistently is the key. For the entire team. You’ve got to bust you’re a—on every play and make it count. Don’t give an inch and don’t let up at all. You can take a deep breath after the game. I’m excited to see him and the team at Lambeau Field Sunday.”
Kramer and approximately 50 other former Packers players will be watching the 12 noon Packers-Saints contest as part of the team’s alumni weekend reunion.
“It never gets old,” Kramer said of alumni weekend. “We all get pretty pumped up for alumni weekend. The game, the fans, the (alumni) gala, seeing my teammates and having a beer or two. It’s always great to be back in Green Bay.”
Week 3 NFL Picks
49ers
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Dolphins
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Jets
Bills
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Eagles
Bengals
Packers 23, Saints 21.
A lot to prove in home opener after disappointing Falcons finish. Aaron Jones, David Bakhtiari, and Christian Watson are all questionable to play, as is Lukas Van Ness and Jaire Alexander. Love and offense will face a still test against a formidable Saints defense, and Green Bay defense has to stop the run first, pressure Derek Carr, and minimize Olave to pull out the win.
