Rodgers will play against Rams, McCarthy says

Green Bay Packers coach Mike McCarthy spoke to the media following practice on Wednesday. Here are some highlights:

On new technology on the sideline:

I think the tablet is an improvement. Every series, you have instant access. It's help. It enhances communication and the time and efficiency of it. Even in a rainstorm in Tennessee, I was very pleased with it. I had information quicker than in the past.

Does it make you a better coach?

I think it makes the league better as far as the coaching network from the box to sideline to players.

On Wednesday's fiery, physical practice:

It's a practice we needed. We probably had too much extracurricular activity. I think we got done what we wanted to get done today.

Did that get in the way of execution?

It got in the way a few times today.

On meeting challenges:

It's about growing a football team. You do these drills for a reason. The level of your football team never grows at the same rate. We're getting into the meat of training camp where we won't be able to practice that way again. We knew our time was limited coming into camp. Targets have been laid out.

On assistant coaches Winston Moss and James Campen getting into it:

That's the energy of that drill. There's nothing wrong with what Winston Moss and James Campen did today. It's nothing personal. It's about getting better.

On linebacker Brad Jones:

Brad Jones had a dental procedure so he was unable to practice today.

On linebacker Jamari Lattimore:

Jamari has had a good training camp. He missed a couple days early. He's able to do multiple things both in base and sub. On special teams, he's been a core player for a number of years.

On rookie running back Rajion Neal, who's out with a knee injury:

They haven't given me any indication one way or another. If he doesn't practice Friday, he most likely won't play in the game.

On rookie tight end Colt Lyerla, also out with a knee injury:

They didn't give me a timeline on it, but I know he's weeks away.

On facing the St. Louis defensive line:

Just watching the tape of the St. Louis Rams last week. I think the overall talent on the football team is impressive. It will be a great challenge for offensive line.

Will quarterback Aaron Rodgers play against the Rams?

Yes, he's scheduled to play.

On players from smaller schools:

I think the way the communication has changed. You're exposed to so much more as a college athlete. The internet and all the things that come off of that. We don't assume anything with the draft class. We make sure they go through the orientation.

On veteran defensive star Julius Peppers' role on team:

The conversations back in OTAs with (offensive tackle) David Bakhtiari. He's very good with younger players. He has a wealth of knowledge. I really like the way Julius interacts with teammates