3 Packers players whose stock is plummeting after preseason opener

1. Alex McGough

Alex McGough only dropped back to pass once on Friday evening, and it resulted in a sack and fumble.

But that's not the main concern for the USFL MVP. He didn't have enough of an opportunity to prove himself in the preseason opener, but rookie Sean Clifford did.

Clifford was already way ahead in the competition to back up Jordan Love, but he left little doubt against the Bengals. The Packers gave Clifford extended playing time, and he impressed, completing 20 of 26 passes for 208 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions.

And he wasn't entirely to blame for either pick. He had pressure in his face on the first, and Tucker Kraft probably should have caught the second.

Clifford did enough to prove himself against the Bengals, and McGough barely playing says a lot. The Packers felt it was important to give Clifford as many reps as possible. It sure looks like they are preparing for their fifth-round draft choice to back up Love this season.

McGough still has a lot to play for. Even if he doesn't end up making the Packers' 53-man roster, two strong performances to end the preseason will help him find a new team. But it seems the backup quarterback battle in Green Bay is over.

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