Backup Quarterbacks Shine
Aaron Rodgers may be a great starter for Green Bay Packers, but his backups are also shining this season too. This could lead to some interesting roster decisions, as the start of the regular season is just a few weeks away. For coach Mike McCarthy, things couldn’t be going better than they are right now.
Just a day after McCarthy’s backup QB’s had played well and the team had enjoyed their second consecutive preseason victory he explained that his goal is for the signal-callers to follow in Rodger’s footsteps. Rodgers is a 2x NFL MVP, and McCarthy is more than thrilled that his backups are trying so hard to emulate the No 1.
Although Rodgers only saw action in one preseason game last year, he got a somewhat surprising start when taking on the Redskins, and looked set to be in fine form. He completed 6 of 8 passes for 37 yards and engineered a 15 play, 75 yard scoring drive.
Backup Brett Hundley then took to the field and went 9 for 10 for 107 yards and a touchdown. Joe Callahan fared well too, and although a fumble and a few limited opportunities hurt his stats line, Taysom Hill managed to pick up the pace and act as the Packers leading rusher. He ran 6 times for 38 yards and his passing numbers were impressive as well, making those who enjoy online betting sit up and take notice.
Backups Neck and Neck
Callahan and Hill have been competing hard for the 3rd backup QB spot and this time it looked like Hill has pulled ahead. McCarthy said that he thought Hill had played better this week, although Hill has exceeded expectations previously when he had notched up a perfect passer rating last week against Philadelphia.
In the last two games all three of the backup QB’s behind Rodgers have illustrated just how well they can play, and how much alike they are. It is clear that Rodger’s is leading by example, and that the backups are well able to follow- something that is rare with one backup, let alone three.
Rodger’s key traits are his ability to make big plays with mobility, and by copying his style and plays, the backups are becoming dangerous passers, both outside and inside the pocket. Bettors have been keeping a keep eye on the backups too, and just as those who enjoy NFL, AFL Premiership betting, or betting on any league will tell you, knowing the players and keeping tabs on their performance is vital.
Bright Futures
Just two seasons ago Hundley was a rather pleasant surprise in training camp and last year, Callahan made an impression with his Brett Favre-esque improvisational skills when Hundley was sidelined with an ankle injury. It hasn’t taken long for these two to come into their own. Hill has finished every game of the season with an impressive play and Callahan is still looking to build off last season.
For McCarthy things couldn’t be going better and he is thrilled that the backups are emulating Rodgers so well. He says his goal is to have four QB’s ready to play, and to have each perform in a way that makes them starter quality.