Scott Tolzien to Start for Packers vs. Giants

In nearly a full game of work, Scott Tolzien apparently showed enough to convince Packers' head coach Mike McCarthy that he should start next week in New York.

After Seneca Wallace exited the game with a groin injury following Green Bay's first drive, Tolzien completed 24 of 39 passes for 280 yards, a touchdown, and two picks. That's not a fantastic stat line by any means, but Tolzien demonstrated command of the offense and seemed to make the plays that Wallace could not.

In particular, Tolzien progressed quickly through his reads against the Eagles defense, hooking up with ten different receivers over the course of the game. That typically isn't the case with young signal callers who are prone to lock onto targets early and often. If Tolzien continues to go through his progressions next week, it'll make things harder for the Giants defense.

Perhaps the more interesting question is what happens to Wallace. If he's too injured to suit up next week, do the Packers sign yet another quarterback to the 53, or will they place him on injured reserve or waivers? If the latter, do the Packers look to sign Matt Flynn or a different reserve passer? It's unlikely we'll know anything more before Monday.

Regardless, the Packers have placed their faith in a former undrafted quarterback to guide the ship until Aaron Rodgers can return. While on paper that doesn't inspire a lot of confidence, Green Bay's upcoming opponents aren't world beaters. A properly prepared Tolzien could be just enough for the Packers to keep their playoff hopes alive.