Flynn stays ahead of Tolzien in backup QB battle

ST. LOUIS – Scott Tolzien got the longer look at backup quarterback Saturday but failed to gain any ground on Matt Flynn.

The Packers' coaching staff is trying to give the two equal work in the preseason in their battle for the backup job to Aaron Rodgers. After Flynn got first look last week at Tennessee as the starter – Rodgers had the night off – Tolzien played first behind Rodgers on Saturday in the Packers' 21-7 preseason win over the Rams.

Tolzien played five series and put up no points, though his final series probably would have ended with a field goal if it had been a regular-season game. Instead, coach Mike McCarthy had Tolzien go for a fourth-and-goal from the 5, but Tolzien failed to connect with tight end Andrew Quarless on a fade pattern.

Flynn, who appears to be the front-runner for the contested job, twice took over from near midfield and put up 11 points on his three series. He completed two of his three passes, including a 34-yard touchdown on a catch and run by receiver Jeff Janis, and finished with a 149.3 rating. Flynn also completed a two-point conversion to rookie receiver Davante Adams.

Tolzien (10-for-15, 107 yards) had an 87.4 rating.

Both quarterbacks operated mainly in the no-huddle offense.

"I was fortunate, we had good field position and Jeff made a big play for the touchdown," Flynn said. "I felt good out there, felt comfortable. It was fun, had a good time."

Tolzien's possessions started at the Packers' 7, 23, 30, 30 and 14. Two series ended in three-and-outs, including one when rookie defensive lineman Ethan Westbrooks beat tackle Aaron Adams for a sack. Another series ended when running back DuJuan Harris lost a fumble.

Tolzien lost a big play when receiver Kevin Dorsey, who earlier in the third quarter had caught an 18-yard in route, dropped a deep throw down the sidelines. A Rams penalty kept that drive alive, and Tolzien went on to throw a four-yard touchdown pass to Myles White, but the play was called because of a hands-to-the-face penalty on backup center Corey Linsley.

"I thought Scott (Tolzien) had some tough situations," coach Mike McCarthy said. "I thought his decision-making was good and the management of what he was trying to do out there. We had some pressures there that really hurt us in some of our drives. We'll look at the video. I thought Scott improved today.