Green Bay Packers: Week 12 MVP and other Awards

The Green Bay Packers took an ugly 38-7 loss to the 49ers, but a few players had performances worthy of awards this week.

Offensive MVP – Jamaal Williams

Once again, Jamaal Williams wins Offensive MVP in a very ugly Green Bay Packers’ loss, just like the Chargers loss. Should he have gotten 11 carries while Aaron Jones only had two more at 13? No, the split should be somewhere closer to 17 to 7 or 16 to 8.  He averaged 4.1 yards per carry on those 11 carries by running hard. His offensive line didn’t do him many favors all night long and he fought for every yard.

In the passing game, he tied Davante Adams for the most receptions with seven. With those seven catches he managed 35 yards, which was good for second on the team, behind only Adams and the only other player to have double-digit receiving yards.  The offense really didn’t have an MVP this week, but Jamaal Williams plays hard no matter what the score is, and for that he wins this week.

Defensive MVP – Za’Darius Smith

Za’Darius Smith is consistently a leader on this Green Bay Packers’ defense.  He had another sack and a half this week, bringing his total to an even 10 for the season. He also managed a total of three quarterback hits.

In addition to rushing the passer, he was the Packers leading tackler this week. That’s right, he managed to beat out Blake Martinez. He had a total of six tackles, five of them solo. He looked good again in the run game. Holding the edge well and taking on multiple blockers allowing others to fly to the ball.  For the most part, I thought the defense on outside runs was solid with both Smiths playing them well, but between the tackles was ugly, which has become a trend.

Underused Talent – Aaron Jones

I’m just going to say it: This felt like a Mike McCarthy game in terms of the way Aaron Jones was used. When Davante Adams was hurt, the unquestionable number one option in the run and pass game was Aaron Jones. Play designs were creative and made for the purpose of optimizing his talents. In November, with Adams back, it hasn’t been the same.

I am a big fan of Matt LaFleur and what he has done this year. His zone running scheme has freed Aaron Jones’ one cut style and he’s gotten him open in space so he could make big plays in the pass game. However, the last few weeks, especially the Chargers and 49ers games have been ugly because of how little Jones has been used. He is a 20+ touch per game back, and should be used as such. With how bad the receivers have been after Adams, Jones should be a top option and getting him the ball should be a priority.

Green Bay Packer Killer – California

For some reason, the Green Bay Packers come out flat in California. When they lost to the Chargers, LaFleur cited the extra day that they had there and scheduled them to arrive at a different time this week. That did not work. Maybe it’s the air there, who knows.

Whatever it is, the Packers, thankfully, do not play any more regular season games there and that is something optimistic to take away from this week, but if the Packers end up with a rematch in the playoffs with the 49ers, look out. There will obviously be a different game plan and a lot of other factors, but beating the 49ers on their turf is a tall task.

Celebration of the Week – Za’Darius Smith

As always, we end the awards with Celebration of the Week, which has quickly become the Za’Darius Smith show.  This week was another sack celebration, but with a different tone. This was a heartfelt tribute to a Packers’ staff member and his mother, Eileen, who is sick.

He pulled up his jersey to reveal a shirt underneath with the message ‘We Love Eileen.’ It was a great moment from a great guy. Za’Darius once again displayed his compassion and his care for everyone in the organization, players and other employees alike.

It’s a tough one to rank, because it was not the most entertaining of them, but the sentimental factor makes it a top-tier pick. As always, if you disagree with any of my list or have comments on the rest of my awards or the game, leave them in the comments below or @DairylandXpress. 

1. Aaron Jones wave goodbye

2. Aaron Rodgers Belt

3. Za’Darius Smith Ray Lewis impression

4. Za’Darius Smith We Love Eileen

5. Za’Darius Smith Pennywise dance

6. Mason Crosby Lambeau Leap

7. Allen Lazard flag point

8. Za’Darius Smith Grave Digger