"The reason behind the fake punt is that Aaron (Rodgers) had come off with an ankle (injury)," McCarthy said. "We had a couple of injuries on the sideline, had guys that were getting ready for the next series.
"I thought the potential for the big play on special teams was there. It was a play that we have been working on. You look for a certain part of the field, with the wind, all of the factors involved. Now, in the end, it's not a very good decision. I wish I had that back."
In interpreting McCarthy's explanation it would seem to be that he thought a quick score would take some pressure off his offense and allow Rodgers to rest on the bench. But the operative word is score, not fumble.
The play had some potential especially since Cobb is a former quarterback and Ross was an outstanding returner at the University of California. But throwing across the field at Soldier Field is different than throwing it inside the Don Hutson Center.