“We’re a good football team,” said Packers head coach Mike McCarthy after an excellent opening day for Green Bay. Credit the 12th man, according to McCarthy. In his postgame, McCarthy lauded the Green Bay faithful for continuing to pump up the Packers with enthusiasm from the stands. “I can’t say enough about our fans,” McCarthy said. “I thought it was an awesome atmosphere.”
What’s strange about that statement? The Packers were on the road against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Florida is a long way from Green Bay, Wisconsin, but you wouldn’t have known it if you were Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who threw for two touchdowns (and heard some roars) in the 27-23 win. McCarthy seemed amazed by the support so far from home. “To be on the road and see all the green and gold,” he said, “you know anytime we made a big play it was the biggest roar in the stadium all day.” A great atmosphere, he repeated, “particularly when we needed them — in the tough spots.”
