The Green Bay Packers face the Kansas City Chiefs in the final preseason exhibition at Lambeau Field tonight. It’ll be the last chance for Matt Flynn and Scott Tolzien to show Mike McCarthy why they deserve to be Aaron Rodgers backup this season.
Some believe the Packers could name one of the two the backup and keep the other around as the 3rd string quarterback. But others believe other positions on the 53-man roster will be more valuable than having an extra quarterback around.
Years ago teams used to carry three quarterbacks with regularity, but that approach has changed. Instead, teams like the Packers find more value in keeping an extra linebacker, tight end or receiver to help bolster special teams.
The last time the Packers went into the regular season was 2008 when Flynn as a rookie, beat out another rookie Brian Brohm.
Scott Tolzien has by far put up better numbers in preseason games, but Flynn has history on his side. The new practice squad rules do allow for Tolzien to land on the Packers practice squad again. But he would have to be exposed to waivers and he could sign with any other team.
The Packers went 2-2-1 in games that Flynn played in last season. That kind of history will certainly weigh heavily when the Packers make their decision.
Flynn is expected to start tonight but will split time with Tolzien in their last attempt to prove that they belong.
AUDIO: Aaron Rodgers is pulling for Flynn and Tolzien (:23)
The Packers and Chiefs kick off at 6pm tonight at Lambeau Field. Following the game, the Packers will have to start trimming their roster from the current 75 players, down to 53.