In a decisive statement, Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur confirmed that there is no quarterback controversy within his team, emphasizing that Jordan Love will remain the starting quarterback once he clears concussion protocol. Following a 41-24 defeat to the Baltimore Ravens on Saturday, LaFleur addressed the media on Sunday, stating that Malik Willis, who impressed in the loss, will revert to his backup role.
While LaFleur has not finalized his approach for the regular-season finale against the Minnesota Vikings on January 7, 2024, he indicated that Love could return as soon as next weekend. “I want to pump the brakes on all that stuff,” LaFleur said, reinforcing his confidence in both quarterbacks. He described Love as playing “some pretty high-level football,” while acknowledging Willis’s strong recent performances.
Willis completed 18 of 21 passes for 288 yards and one touchdown during the game against the Ravens. He also showcased his mobility, rushing for 60 yards and two touchdowns, though he had to leave the game briefly to have his right shoulder examined. LaFleur expressed optimism that Willis would be ready to play against the Vikings, depending on Love’s health status.
Love sustained a concussion during the Packers’ matchup against the Chicago Bears in Week 16. Although players gathered at Lambeau Field on Sunday for meetings, LaFleur confirmed that Love did not undergo additional testing, which is scheduled for later in the week.
The Packers have already secured the NFC’s No. 7 seed and will begin their playoff run on the road. However, LaFleur must consider the health of his team, particularly after a troubling defensive performance against Baltimore, where they allowed Derrick Henry to rush for 216 yards and the Ravens to accumulate a staggering 307 rushing yards as a team.
LaFleur expressed disappointment in his team’s defensive techniques, noting, “What was probably the most disappointing thing after watching the tape is just how many times we weren’t playing the right technique or just in the right position to make a play.” This performance marked only the second instance since 1978 that the Packers have allowed over 300 rushing yards in a single game.
The Packers’ struggles have been exacerbated by injuries. Defensive tackle Jordon Riley and cornerback Kamal Hadden suffered season-ending injuries during the Ravens game, adding to the absence of Micah Parsons and Devonte Wyatt, who are already sidelined with season-ending injuries of their own.
LaFleur acknowledged the challenges posed by the team’s current injury situation, stating, “Regardless of anything, whether you rest certain individuals, you’re kind of limited, especially our situation right now with the number of injuries that occurred.” He urged players to prepare mentally and be ready to perform, highlighting the importance of resilience as they move forward in the season.
As the Packers approach their final regular-season game, the focus now shifts to the health of key players and the need to address the defensive lapses displayed against the Ravens. With the playoffs looming, LaFleur’s choices in the coming days will be critical for the team’s success.
