GREENVILLE (NBC26) — Packers fans who attended the season opener in Jacksonville returned home today at the Appleton International Airport. Coming off of a 38-3 loss, fans say everything about the trip was ideal - except the Packers performance.
"It was a beautiful atmosphere, nice people, even the saints fans were cool, and the Packers well, they didn’t show up,” said Green Bay resident John Girard.
The game was originally set to take place in New Orleans but was moved to Jacksonville due to damage caused by Hurricane Ida. Fans say they had to book a new hotel and re-purchase their tickets to the game when it was switched, but they say they were prepared to travel anywhere to support their favorite team.
"We felt bad for the people in New Orleans with what they were going through but no matter where they were going to end up we were just going to go along for the ride,” said Black Creek resident Renee Miller.
As for what went wrong during Sunday’s game, fans say it’s hard to say.
“I think the whole team struggled," Miller said. "Maybe a little bit more practice during the preseason could’ve helped us.”
"I think just the play calling. It didn't seem like they really had good plan going into it and the Saints came to stomp Aaron Rodgers," said Appleton resident Ashley Nalepka.
Fans say the Packers were simply bested by the Saints this time around.
“The New Orleans Saints have a great coach, they have great players, they played well,” Girard said.
Although they would’ve hoped for a better start to the season, fans say they're excited for the rest of the season with their favorite team.
“It just didn’t seem like they had their plays together. It just seemed very disjointed," Nalepka said. "Hopefully it’s uphill from here.”
