After watching tape of the Green Bay Packers, it's apparent the team's struggle on offense has multiple layers. From the personnel to the route schemes to the play calling, there is validity in dissecting any of those topics. And I would agree that, in some instances, static formation looks and the isolation routes have created adverse situations for quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
But there's no doubt Rodgers himself has regressed, specifically in his technique. Below, we'll examine three areas -- deep-ball efficiency, decision-making on timing routes, and accuracy in a clean pocket -- in which Rodgers has looked like a different quarterback than his 2014 MVP season. Then we'll propose how he can get each back on track.
Deep-ball efficiency
The numbers
Rodgers on passes that travel 20-plus yards
During the 2014 season, Rodgers was a master of the deep ball, ranking first in yards per attempt on passes that traveled 20 yards or more in the air. Looking at the numbers from this season, it's clear he has taken a major step back. In fact, only Jameis Winston, Brock Osweiler, Blake Bortles and Blaine Gabbert have a worse yards-per-attempt figure than Rodgers on deep passes in 2016.
The tape
What I saw in 2014: In the example below, from 2014 versus the Atlanta Falcons, the Packers run a "sting" route versus a deep half safety. It's a deep double move with Jordy Nelson stemming to the corner and then breaking back across the face of the safety to the post. The key here is Rodgers' ball placement and technique. With max protection, Rodgers has time to set his base, take a quick crow-hop and step into the throw. That allows Rodgers to follow through on the ball while keeping his shoulders pointed toward the target down the field. These are ideal mechanics to generate power from his core and velocity on an over-the-top release. With Nelson separating from the safety, the result is an absolute dime from Rodgers. Ball on the upfield shoulder. Perfect placement to get six.
What I see in 2016: