Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love has been officially ruled out for Week 17 due to a concussion he sustained from a helmet-to-helmet hit during last Saturday’s game against the Chicago Bears. Backup Malik Willis is set to step in as the starter for the Packers’ upcoming primetime matchup against the Baltimore Ravens on Saturday night, as reported by Adam Schefter of ESPN.
Despite a limited practice schedule throughout the week, Love’s downgrade on Friday means he will not take the field at Lambeau Field. This matchup has now shifted to a showdown between backup quarterbacks, with Willis going up against Baltimore’s Tyler Huntley. Notably, Ravens star quarterback Lamar Jackson is also doubtful for the game due to a back contusion sustained last Sunday.
The stakes are high for both teams: while the Packers have already secured a playoff spot following the Detroit Lions’ loss on Christmas Day, they are still vying for the NFC North title and must win to keep those hopes alive. On the other hand, the Ravens find themselves in a critical position, needing a win to avoid being eliminated from postseason contention, particularly with the Pittsburgh Steelers poised to clinch the AFC North title should Baltimore lose.
Malik Willis brings experience to the role, having started two games for the Packers last season, both of which resulted in victories. He boasts a remarkable completion rate of 76.5 percent across ten career games with Green Bay, averaging 10.1 yards per attempt and throwing five touchdown passes without any interceptions, recording an impressive passer rating of 132.2. Furthermore, Willis is athletic, contributing 201 rushing yards and a touchdown.
In anticipation of the game, the Packers are expected to elevate practice squad quarterback Clayton Tune to the active roster for Week 17, adding depth as they prepare for the matchup against the Ravens. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how Willis will lead the Packers in this crucial game, underscoring the resilience and adaptability of the team in the face of adversity.