If life was fair, no one would steal sandwiches and each NFL team would win the Super Bowl once every 32…oops, no math. I hope the Packers get a couple in your time because reading the Inbox about it would be the best.
The only thing I haven’t done in this career is cover a Super Bowl. I hope to get that opportunity someday.
George from Goodlettsville, TN
I agree with Mike that I would love to see Buffalo finally win a Super Bowl, and Minnesota not so much. I have a brother and two nephews that live in Minnesota, and if the Vikings won a Super Bowl, my asking how many Super Bowls they won would lose something.
I enjoy the way the Bills have built this team, too – good drafts, solid free-agent signings and obviously identifying the franchise quarterback of the four who were selected in the top 10 in 2018. As far as the Vikings are concerned, we’re either going to learn something about them during these playoffs or the suspicions of many will be proven correct. But there is no question Minnesota has earned the right define its destiny with its litany of fourth-quarter comebacks.
Thomas from Cedar Rapids, IA
“Minnesota not so much.” My sentiments exactly, Mike. Although I’ve softened a bit in my old age, I recall my purple cladded classmates’ unmerciful ribbing in the ’70s. As much as I would enjoy 0-5, I don’t even want them to get the chance. The friends I still keep in touch with expressed their excitement for me with the Packers’ brief resurgence this year but also made it clear who they were cheering for last Sunday night. Rivalries never die. I would be just fine with 49ers vs. Bills.
From an interest standpoint, I’d probably take the NFC field over Minnesota. I’m not trying to be a hater, but truthfully the Vikings are just the team I’m least looking forward to watching in the playoffs. The other six NFC teams have some interesting storylines, especially the 49ers. The Vikings are the Vikings. I feel like I’ve seen this concert before.
Mike/Wes, I think a new difference-maker that would help the most is tight end. We could have a great line if all are healthy and seem set at running back. The D-line needs help from a pass rusher. I like linebackers, cornerbacks, and if Jordan Love is the next HOF quarterback, I am good.
Well, that’s a pretty big “if,” AJ, but I like your enthusiasm. The Packers most likely will have nine picks in this year’s draft and a lot of areas to address depending on which veterans are still on the roster by the end of April. Tight end could make sense, but until those dominoes start to fall, your guess is as good as mine as to which positions they allocate those selections.
Mike and Wes, I agree with the positive team identity with “they never quit” but a negative team identity would be under performers? What say you?
Both can be true, Zach. I don’t think anyone is satisfied with an 8-9 record and missing the playoffs. I’d still rather take the team that fought to the bitter end than one that folded its tent in Week 13 and called it a year.
Hi Wes, a couple of people have mentioned Mike’s mention in Mark’s column. I would like to add that MT5 is an excellent format that many organizations could learn from. The open and direct answers are enlightening. Does any other team do this?
Not that I’m aware of. Some GMs and team presidents interact with fans, but rarely do you see owners/CEOs engaging their fanbase as frequently as Mark does.
