Only three weeks ago, the Packers traded a seventh-round pick to acquire Malik Willis from the Tennessee Titans. Jordan Love sustained an injury unexpectedly towards the game’s end against the Eagles. Consequently, Malik Willis was called upon sooner than expected to step in. The aim for a backup quarterback is to ensure the team doesn’t lose the game. Under Matt LaFleur’s strategic guidance, Willis excelled and steered the Packers to a 16-10 victory against the Colts.
Calm and Consistent: The Perfect Game Plan by LaFleur
Throughout the week, national media outlets emphasized Malik Willis’ underperformance with the Titans. Often overlooked in discussions of quarterback play are the context and coaching. For instance, Willis demonstrated in the game that he is a capable NFL quarterback. Despite Willis facing challenges with the Titans, Matt LaFleur prepared for this game effectively.
Game management is often seen in a negative light. Yet, the objective of a football game is to secure a victory, and triumphing with a backup quarterback, especially one new to Green Bay, is a significant accomplishment. LaFleur’s strategy effectively positioned the offense for success.
Josh Jacobs showcased a dynamic presence in the run game, rushing 32 times for 151 yards. Despite a fumble in the end zone, the team maintained their trust in him, providing multiple opportunities. This performance underscored the reason the Packers signed Jacobs during the offseason.
Malik Willis’s objective was to avoid turnovers. LaFleur ensured this by not only establishing the run game but also by diversifying the running plays. Six players took part in the running game (Jacobs, Lloyd, Wilson, Reed, Melton, Willis), which paved the way for Willis to effortlessly make significant passes when it mattered most. LaFleur’s play-calling instilled the confidence Willis required to effectively run the offense.
In this league, winning is always a challenge. However, securing a victory with a quarterback who was traded just three weeks prior presents a unique set of challenges. LaFleur released a massive sigh of relief as he stepped up to the postgame podium. Nevertheless, the Packers made victory with Willis appear effortless. If the Packers maintain a run-first strategy complemented by efficient passing, the offense stands a good chance against the Titans.
Turnover Machine: Defense Continues to Force Multiple Turnovers for Another Week
Upon Jeff Hafley’s appointment as defensive coordinator, his focus was clear: generate and recover turnovers. Two weeks in, the defense has risen to the challenge, forcing three turnovers against the Eagles and the Colts. Xavier McKinney, a key defensive free agent acquisition, has notched an interception in each game.
Although there is still progress to be made and skills to be honed, the defense has kicked off to a strong start. The players appear to be embracing Coach Hafley’s methods and have confidence in his leadership. Devonte Wyatt notched a sack and is beginning to truly excel within this system. By the year’s end, Wyatt might well become a prominent figure in the national conversation.
While the defense has allowed some significant plays, the key change has been the ability to force turnovers, a feat the Packers have not achieved in recent years. Last season, they managed only seven interceptions, but this season, they’ve already secured five in just two games. Maintaining this momentum in the turnover battle, along with further adaptation to the scheme, positions them for tremendous success.
The absence of a strong pass rush and sacks has been a source of frustration for many. Nonetheless, the players are adhering to the game plan. Facing a quarterback with significant mobility and running capabilities requires a different strategy. Anticipate a more assertive pass rush when the Packers face the Titans next week.
Special Teams: Daniel Whelan is a Weapon
The time is ripe to spotlight Daniel Whelan following his latest impressive punting display. Whelan executed three punts totaling 139 yards, with an average of 46.3 yards per punt, and each punt landed within the 20-yard line. In a sport where every inch counts, possessing a punter with consistent excellence offers a significant edge.
If Whelan consistently places his punts within the 20-yard line, the defense begins with a favorable position. Solid field positioning is crucial for the defense, especially as they adapt to a new system. This exemplifies complementary football at its finest. Given that special teams have been problematic in previous years, having a proficient punter is vital for the confidence of this young team.
Brayden Narveson’s performance remains a concern. The issue with Green Bay’s kickers, including Narveson, is their inability to execute game-sealing kicks. At crucial moments, the kicker has failed to convert field goals. The concern isn’t if, but rather when, these shortcomings on special teams will have significant repercussions for the Packers in a pivotal game.
Heading to Tennessee: Malik Willis Has a Chance to Start Against His Former Team
This week, the Packers delayed until Saturday to announce Jordan Love as doubtful for the Colts game, paving the way for Malik Willis’s first start with the Packers and his first since his rookie year in 2022. Love’s availability for Sunday remains unclear. However, I will approach the upcoming game against the Titans with the assumption that Willis will be starting.
Willis did not win the quarterback competition in Tennessee against Will Levis, the 2023 draft pick. Over the past two weeks, Levis has shown carelessness with the ball, forcing it into risky situations and making poor decisions. These were initially concerns regarding Willis. Nonetheless, if Matt LaFleur consistently devises advantageous game plans, Willis could demonstrate that he can excel under the right conditions.
The offense must keep innovating in the run game, which should, in turn, create more chances in the passing game. As Willis grows more accustomed to leading the offense and commanding the huddle, his confidence will build trust. The defense must intensify their pass rush this week to pressure Will Levis into making errors. This matchup is ideally suited for an aggressive pass rush strategy.
Ultimately, Daniel Whelan must maintain his precision in punting to ensure the defense has a favorable field position. Brayden Narveson must convert his field goals when the Packers rely on him to seal a game. Should the Packers execute complementary football across all three phases, they might just have devised the winning strategy to succeed without Jordan Love.
