Packers: Top five performers in preseason vs. Raiders

Tim Boyle

With Matt LaFleur’s decision not to play any of his starters, Tim Boyle got the start at quarterback and looked the best he has in a Packers uniform. Boyle played the entire first half and may have just taken the lead in the battle for Aaron Rodgers‘ backup.

Boyle went 16-of-25 for 191 yards and two touchdowns. He led three touchdown drives overall and all the Packers’ points in the game.

ANALYSIS: Three takeaways from Packers’ third preseason game vs. Raiders

There were throws Boyle would like to get back, like the one to Trevor Davis. He didn’t lead him enough down the field. But Boyle clearly outplayed DeShone Kizer.

Kizer has shown enough between his year in Cleveland, and his time with the Packers for the team to know what they have in him. Kizer has done nothing to install confidence and the backup quarterback my not be on the team.

Before Thursday, Boyle’s play was mostly with third-stringers or worse. Against the Raiders, he was the first one on the field playing with second-teamers and some key role players, and he gave a strong performance. If Thursday is a sign of what he can do with better players, the team may have its backup QB.

The backup QB battle is likely to go through next week’s preseason finale against the Kansas City Chiefs. Should Boyle outplay Kizer again, the question would then become how comfortable are the Packers going into the season with one quarterback, or will they use a roster spot to keep three on the 53? It is also possible the Packers go outside the organization.

It’s been a while since the Packers have had a proven veteran behind Rodgers. With his age and health history, it might not be a bad idea to invest in that position.