McCarthy: 'Matt Flynn will play in the game, that's part of our planning'

By Matt Montgomery

CREATED Dec. 30, 2011

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GREEN BAY- Packers head coach Mike McCarthy joined Wisconsin's Morning News on Newsradio 620 WTMJ to discuss the Packers upcoming game against Detroit and the team's excitement for the #1 seed in the NFC playoffs.

Despite the Packers locking up the #1 seed in the NFC, McCarthy says the goal is to win Sunday's game against Detroit. However, their approach is slightly different as he told WMN, "You are able to focus on the health of your football team more this year than last," said coach McCarthy.

McCarthy was asked the critical question of what to expect out of quarterback snaps this Sunday. McCarthy wouldn't give any details into how much playing time for QB Aaron Rodgers, but said, "Matt Flynn will play in the game, that's part of our planning." 

McCarthy was asked about how critical the bye week is to his team. He said it is the team's goal at beginning of year is host NFC playoffs and won't take off the "bye" or open week.

He believes, "There's gonna be work that gets done to make sure that by the time the weekend rolls around that our team is ready to go."

Gene Mueller asked coach McCarthy about whether or not he talked to other coaches around the NFL about how to handle the bye week and playing a Week 17 game that has no impact on the playoffs.

"I really don't communicate with other coaches, it's not something I believe in," said McCarthy.

He feels his top priority as an NFL head coach is to keep his finger on pulse of team.
 
The Detroit Lions are coming in hot and he was asked about his thoughts on the Lions improvement this year. McCarthy believes their quarterback play of Matthew Stafford is higher than he remembers. He said their defense has been consistent, with a strong defensive line.
 
On a lighter note, McCarthy said he gets great joy watching his kids wake up on Christmas day and open gifts. McCarthy said his favorite gift he got was a snow blower and he can't wait to use it.