For years, coaches have been fascinated by the red zone potential of pass-rusher Julius Peppers, considering his size, athleticism and basketball background.
The Packers were the latest to try it, and even though a potential touchdown pass clanked off his hands Sunday night, Packers coach Mike McCarthy said he wouldn’t hesitate calling Peppers’ number again.
“I’m not discouraged by Julius dropping the football,” McCarthy said, via Ryan Wood of the Green Bay Press-Gazette. “I think if you go through preparation phase, and if you had seen the execution of the play over the last six or seven weeks, I think you’d be confident to call it again.”
The Panthers tried it 10 years ago, throwing several fades his way, hoping he’d reach over smaller corners and use the size advantage. He’s still waiting for his first career reception, however.
Sunday’s chance was a quick slant, and Peppers was in good position to score.
“We ran the slant, and he threw a fastball,” Peppers said. “It was a little hot, so I couldn’t get my hands up in time to snag it.”
“It was a little harder than maybe he was expecting,” quarterback Aaron Rodgers said. “Yeah, he ran a good route and got his chest on it. Pep’s a talented guy. We’ve ran that play at practice a number of times and he’s come down with it. That one was probably faster than he was used to.”
Given the Packers’ collection of offensive talent, they probably shouldn’t take too many chances away from actual receivers in the red zone. But Peppers’ unique gifts make it hard to ignore, and his 49-yard interception return the other week makes it tempting to give him another chance at a Lambeau Leap.
