In a recent meeting in the locker room at Lambeau Field, Green Bay Packers quarterback Malik Willis and wide receiver Jayden Reed shared a conversation before going their separate ways. With Willis set to likely start against the Indianapolis Colts in place of the injured Jordan Love, Reed expressed his desire to establish a strong connection with Willis, similar to the one he had with Love last season.
Reed emphasized the importance of being on the same page with his quarterback, stating, “That’s very important, being on the same page with the guys you’re throwing to. So I was talking to him, just little things maybe about getting the guys together, just watching the tape for 30 minutes, watching our opponent so we’re on the same page from that standpoint.”
Having led the NFL in receiving yards after Week 1 and scoring two touchdowns in their recent matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles in Brazil, Reed mentioned that he felt in sync with Willis just two days into their time together. Willis joined the Packers at the end of August following a trade with the Tennessee Titans, and Reed was impressed by Willis’ skills, noting that he could “spin it.”
Coach Matt LaFleur and the Packers organization have confidence in Willis’ abilities, believing that he can make plays with both his arm and his legs. LaFleur’s task for Week 2, and possibly the following weeks, is to design a game plan that maximizes Willis’ strengths. This plan may involve giving Willis easy completions, utilizing his mobility, and testing the Colts defense horizontally.
Despite not revealing his detailed preparation schedule, Willis mentioned that he has been putting in extra effort and spending a significant amount of time getting ready for Sunday’s game. The Packers are keeping the possibility open for Love to start, but it appears unlikely given his recent injury.
Willis acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding Love’s availability, stating, “He’s preparing to play … and we’re just preparing ourselves if he can’t go. That’s the reality of this league, so we just have to continue to utilize these reps and be ready to go if called upon.”
There has been some speculation that Love may still start against the Colts, but many believe this to be a strategic move by the Packers to keep their opponents guessing. As game day approaches, it is expected that Willis will be the starting quarterback, with Love potentially making a return in the coming weeks.
With a well-thought-out game plan, steady performance from Willis, and support from the rest of the team, there is optimism that Willis can step in for Love without causing a major setback for the Packers. Although the situation may seem daunting at first glance, the team is working hard to ensure a smooth transition in the absence of Love.
