Game Notes: Barnett, Matthews Make '09 Debuts

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - It had been a long time coming for both players, but linebackers Nick Barnett and Clay Matthews each got to see their first game action of 2009 on Thursday in Tennessee, and both emerged encouraged and in good shape. "It was great to have them out there," Head Coach Mike McCarthy said. "I mean you definitely felt their presence, and I thought they definitely made an impact when they were on the field." Barnett, who hadn't played since tearing the ACL in his knee last November, got his first taste of the new 3-4 defense from his inside linebacker spot, and he felt things went smoothly. He was credited with two tackles and didn't report any glaring assignment errors while playing most of the first half. More importantly, Barnett reported no problems with his surgically repaired knee and declared himself ready for the Sept. 13 season opener against Chicago. "It was strong -- strong enough to run, strong enough to push, strong enough..