The Packers’ defense delivered a powerful statement by thoroughly dominating the Titans. Once Jeff Hafley was able to pinpoint the Titans vulnerabilities, he sent the pass rush. Hafley kept sending the pass rush, with the defense sacking Will Levis eight times. The Titans offensive line was unable to breathe from the relentless efficiency of the Packers defensive front.
Coming off an impressive week two showing, the question for the Packers offense was quite simple. How can the Packers game plan effectively for a second week in a row? Winning, much less succeeding, with a backup quarterback is not an easy task. Yet, Matt LaFleur crafted another impeccable game plan for Malik Willis. LaFleur built off his play calling from last week by trusting Willis to air the ball out and use his arm to make plays.
Packers Defense Steals the Show
The Packers and Titans started the game with consecutive touchdowns. Both teams seamlessly marched down the field for scoring drives. The Packers were able to convert a field goal on their second drive. However, on the Titans second drive, disaster began to ensue.
On the first and ten of the Titans’ second drive, Jaire Alexander kept his focus solely on Will Levis. As Levis dropped back to pass, Alexander leapt in front of DeAndre Hopkins for a pick-six. Alexander was reading Levis like a book. Following this drive, the Titans struggled to regain their footing in the game. Although it was just the end of the first quarter, Alexander’s interception felt like a death sentence to the Titans.
The Packers built off the momentum by stuffing the Titans on a 4th and 2. Just two drives later, Kingsley Enagbare sacks Will Levis, knocks the ball loose, and Lukas Van Ness recovers it. From that point on, Jeff Hafley kept sending the pass rush. Towards the end of the game, you almost felt bad for Levis as the Packers defensive front never let their foot off the gas.
Cementing his impact, Xavier McKinney secures his third interception in three games. Although the Packers have been fortunate to receive several turnovers, the key is capitalizing on them. Should the Packers’ defense persist in generating turnovers, they are likely to rank among the top five defensive teams by the end of the season.
Malik Willis Leads Offense with Poise
Malik Willis maintained his composure throughout the week when questioned about playing against his former team. There’s no question that Willis exemplifies humble leadership. His modesty was evident as he took to the post-game podium. “All wins count the same” Willis stated, smiling. He further mentioned that he won’t celebrate this win until the offseason, emphasizing that it’s a long season.
It’s rare to see a backup quarterback play with such confidence and poise in the pocket. Commanding an NFL offense involves more than just handing off the ball; it requires mastering a playbook filled with challenging plays. Additionally, the quarterback must ensure that all players are properly aligned and in position. If the initial play cannot be executed, you either switch to the second play or improvise if all else fails. Willis made it all look effortless.
Despite one significant error, a sack, Willis protected the football and made his throws on time with accuracy. Telling Packers fans that Jordan Love would suffer an injury in week one, return by week four, and the backup quarterback would achieve a 2-0 record, they would undoubtedly accept that scenario every time.
Now, the NFC North division rival, the Minnesota Vikings, are set to visit Lambeau Field on Sunday. Hopefully, this time with Jordan Love returning to the field. If Matt LaFleur continues his creative play-calling and Jordan Love returns to his prior form, the offense will be incredibly dynamic.
In a league where players often demand the ball, the Packers’ receivers have dedicated themselves to the blocking game. If this brand of selfless football continues, the upcoming game against the Vikings on Sunday promises to be the most exciting game of the season thus far.
