In Like Flynn

What was all the fuss about?

It was announced on Saturday by Green Bay Packers coach Mike McCarthy that starting QB Aaron Rodgers would not be playing any part in the Packers team on Sunday against divisional rivals Detroit Lions.  That would mean Matt Flynn would get only his second NFL start in his career.

It may have been a 'nothing' game for the Packers after they secured home advantage for the playoffs last week, but that didn't mean Flynn was prepared to lose it for the Packers who were going for a 15-1 regular season.

The final score came in at 48-45 to the Packers, but Flynn's numbers were incredible, setting club and personal records left,right and centre: 480 yards, 6 TD's, 1 INT finishing with a passer rating of 136.4.  It should also be noted that Matthew Stafford threw for an equally impressive 520 yards in the game, setting a club record for the Lions.

Matt Flynn smashes Packers records with 480yds and 6TD's

Flynn's postmatch reaction was understated and typical of the temperament McCarthy has instilled in the Packers players. "I didn't think it would be a 6TD game, but that's what it took to win...I didn't look to prove anything to anybody today.  The goal was to win the game.  It was easier to not look ahead".

McCarthy was quick to point out after the match that the world had now seen in Flynn  what the Packers see in training every week.  He also confirmed that he was keen to keep Rodgers involved and that the starting QB did call the plays in the first half.

But as they now do look ahead to a divisional playoff on January 15th at Lambeau Field, McCarthy will be confident that he has his number 1 QB in Rodgers in good form and plenty of back up from a superb Matt Flynn.