Packers Start Malik Willis Against Ravens as Love Sits Out

The Green Bay Packers will face the Baltimore Ravens on Saturday night without starting quarterback Jordan Love. Backup Malik Willis will take the helm after Love was ruled out due to a concussion sustained during last week’s overtime loss to the Chicago Bears. This decision follows a downgrade of Love’s status from questionable to out on Friday.

Willis, who stepped in for Love during the Bears game, also sustained an injury to his right shoulder on the final play. Despite this setback, he participated in practice this week, although he missed one day due to an illness affecting the Packers locker room. The team’s head coach, Matt LaFleur, addressed Love’s situation earlier this week, highlighting the unpredictability of concussion recovery. “It’s just a very delicate issue, you know what I’m saying in terms of, we’ve seen it with certain guys they come in, they feel great one day and then the next day they don’t,” LaFleur explained.

In the absence of Love, the Packers are likely to elevate Clayton Tune from their practice squad to serve as Willis’ backup. Tune was not included in Friday’s roster moves, which means the Packers will need to add him to the active roster on game day. This move comes after linebacker Kristian Welch was placed on injured reserve due to an ankle injury, potentially creating space for Tune.

In addition to Love’s absence, the Packers have downgraded guard Aaron Banks and receiver Savion Williams to questionable status due to neck and foot illnesses, respectively. These injuries could complicate the team’s preparations as they head into a crucial matchup.

The Ravens are also facing uncertainty at quarterback. Lamar Jackson has been listed as doubtful with a back contusion. Should Jackson not play, Tyler Huntley is expected to start for Baltimore.

The Packers currently hold a record of 9-5-1 and clinched a playoff spot following the Detroit Lions’ loss to the Minnesota Vikings earlier this week. They remain in contention for the NFC North title, which they can secure by winning their final two games while hoping for the Bears to lose their last two.

As the Packers prepare for this pivotal game, both teams will be looking to solidify their playoff positioning while navigating key injuries on their rosters.