Green Bay Packers: The Geronimo Effect, Enough To Unseat Cobb?
By Joe Kiemen
The Green Bay Packers defeated the Detroit Lions to become the NFC North Champions. Riding the stellar play of Aaron Rodgers, the Packers overcame their 4-6 record and enter the playoffs as the NFL’s hottest team. Will Geronimo Allison continue his strong play in the playoffs? If so, how will it affect the wide receiver corps next year?
In week 17, rookie wide receiver, Geronimo Allison picked a perfect time to set a career high in receiving yardage. Most importantly, each of his 4 catches and 91 yards played a major role on scoring drives.
One of these plays was significant but easily overlooked. With only 23 seconds left before halftime, the Packers faced a 14-7 deficit. Instead of taking a knee and heading to the locker room, McCarthy went against the status quo and came out throwing. This was even more surprising after a delay of game penalty on first down.
Lining up from the slot, Geronimo Allision showed tremendous chemistry with Aaron Rodgers as his quarterback rolled to his right. After bullying his way through early contact, Allison read Rodgers’ eyes and found a gaping hole in the coverage.
The 39-yard reception led to a Mason Crosby field goal as the first half ended. Before Allison’s catch, Detroit was in firm control of the momentum. Given the way the Green Bay defense had played, the Lions 14-7 lead was a potential problem.
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In the 4th quarter, Allison once again offered timely production with a 31-yard reception and drive capping 10-yard touchdown. What stood out most was the receiver’s connection with Rodgers after a play breaks down.
Allison’s awareness and length provide’s Rodgers with a big-bodied target he can trust. This will certainly lead to additional opportunities down the road.
The physical attributes and chemistry with Aaron Rodgers have led some to suggest that Allison could replace teammate Randall Cobb. Indeed, Cobb’s injuries, lackluster production, and large contract have given this argument legs.
Entering the third year of his four-year deal, Cobb’s cap hit is set to increase from $9.15 million to $12.75 million in 2017-18. If Ted Thompson were to get out from this commitment, he could use the money to re-sign current players or find help in the secondary.
However, this would be a mistake. Instead of looking to replace to offensive weapons, Thompson should always be seeking to add more. With fans already restless that Green Bay has only one Super Bowl victory with Aaron Rodgers, departing with a versatile playmaker would be a mistake.
Having already shown he has a knack for the big play, Geronimo Allison is making noise in Green Bay. While Mike McCarthy always preaches the importance of competition in training camp, Randall Cobb’s 2017-18 roster status should not in jeopardy. A receiving corps of Jordy Nelson, Randall Cobb, Davante Adams, Geronimo Allison and a potential draft pick will make the unit one of the league’s best.