Green Bay Packers' Top Five Offensive Plays of 2008

While 6-10 wasn't what any Green Bay Packer fan was hoping for this season, it wasn't all bad in Titletown during 2008.

Over my next couple of articles, I will be attempting to ease the pain of my fellow Packers' fans (and my own, of course) with a review of some of the more memorable plays of the 2008 season.

1. Aaron Rodgers' one-yard touchdown vs Minnesota Vikings

Let's be honest, Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers might have gone through the hardest offseason in the history of NFL quarterbacks.

Sure, he had some supporters, but a fair share of his teams' fan base was absolutely furious that he was going to be taking the snaps on opening day at Lambeau Field.

But out he came; out that same tunnel that the legendary Brett Favre had for 17 years, and he was cheered—loudly. His entrance was a wonderful moment at Lambeau Field, but it was to be out done only hours later.

With the Packers up 17-12 midway through the fourth quarter, Ryan Grant broke off a 57-yard run that set Green Bay up with first-and-goal at the Minnesota one-yard line.

The Packers called Rodgers' number, and his sneak into the end zone all but clinched a Packers victory over the rival Vikings. You could tell from Rodgers' emotional spike of the football that the frustration and drama from the summer was finally over.

And what more could you have asked for out of the start to your career? Well, maybe a more polished Lambeau Leap, but cut him some slack; it was his first one!

2. Rodgers' 71-yard touchdown pass to Donald Driver vs. Detroit Lions

I can already hear it: How could a touchdown against the worst team in NFL history rank on your list?

First off, I'd say that because it was against the worst team ever qualifies it for this list. At that point in the game, the Lions were only down three points—a scary proposition for our fourth quarter defense in 2008. It was the dagger that ensured the Lions would become the first team to finish a season 0-16.

The pass also ensured a couple of milestones for the two involved. Rodgers went over 4,000 yards passing on the play, and Driver went over 1,000 yards receiving for the sixth time in seven years. Quite a set of feats accomplished on just one play.

In reality though, I'm just glad the Packers beat the Lions in that final game. Had that not happened, I don't think I'd ever be able to forget it.

3. Rodgers' 48-yard touchdown pass to Greg Jennings vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

It was a game the Packers lost, but this might be one of the most underrated throws of the whole NFL season.

On the series before this throw, Rodgers tried to dive for a first down on a third down scramble. As it turned out, Rodgers severely sprained his throwing shoulder on that very dive.

However, Rodgers was able to hide his pain adequately enough to come out for the next series.

Facing a 3rd-and-long from the Packers' 48-yard line, Rodgers delivered a strike, down the seam of Tampa's Cover-Two defense—no easy throw in any circumstance. The pass hit Jennings in stride and he walked into the end zone for a Green Bay touchdown.

In my opinion, it was probably the hardest thrown ball I've seen Rodgers throw in his career—and he had a busted shoulder. If that wasn't enough, anyone who knows anything about the Cover-2 will tell you just how small of a window he fit that pass into.

I dare you to show me five better throws in the NFL this season.

4. Rodgers' 46-yard pass to James Jones vs. Jacksonville Jaguars

This turns out to be another play that doesn't result in a Packers' victory, but Jones' juggling 46-yard catch had to be on this list.

It was a play that Jones patented last season—a straight fly down the near sideline before catching a strike in between defenders (remember back to games at Denver, Detroit last season).

This time, however, Jones didn't get a full grasp on the ball and was juggling it before securing possession and taking a hit from a Jaguars' defender. Jacksonville reviewed the call, but it was clear from replays that Jones regained possession before he was violently knocked out of bounds.

That play (and game in general) made it clear to me that we did miss James Jones considerably this season. He doesn't have top-end speed, but he's the kind of big, possession receiver that Green Bay could have utilized had he not been hurt.

Remember back to the preseason—Jones caught a pass, took a hit that knocked his helmet off, and still ran into the end zone for a touchdown. It was pretty incredible.

Here's to your health next season, James!

5. Rodgers' 56-yard pass to Jennings vs Minnesota Vikings

This was the throw that really had me excited about the 2008 season. Immediately after the Vikings went up 3-0, Rodgers beautifully sold a play action and heaved a deep ball.

Yet, after watching Favre do this for 17 years, I was nervous the second it left his hand.

That anxiety hasn't been felt since.

The pass landed nicely in the hands of a leaping Jennings, and the Packers were in business at the Minnesota six-yard line. Right then and there I knew the Packers had something in Aaron Rodgers.

It also set up a monster season for Jennings, Green Bay's newest superstar. Jennings would end up with nearly 1,300 yards and nine touchdowns, and he led the league in pass receptions over 20 yards.

If the Packers can lock up Jennings to a long-term deal, expect a lot more of these kind of plays in the future.