The Green Bay Packers face a challenging situation as they prepare for their Week 2 matchup against the Indianapolis Colts. With starting quarterback Jordan Love sidelined, backup Malik Willis, who has not started a game in two years and joined the Packers less than three weeks ago, is set to take over. The circumstances are less than ideal for Willis, but recent injury updates from the Colts could offer the Packers a glimmer of hope.
Head coach Matt LaFleur must devise a creative game plan to help Willis navigate his first start in Green Bay. The Colts’ injury report, which lists key defensive players as questionable, could significantly influence the game and potentially tilt the balance in favor of the Packers.
The Colts’ initial injury report for Week 2 includes three crucial defensive starters: defensive tackle DeForest Buckner, defensive end Kwity Paye, and safety Julian Blackmon. All three missed practice on Wednesday. Buckner, a three-time Pro Bowler with 32.5 sacks over the last four seasons, and Paye, a former first-round pick with 8.5 sacks last year, are pivotal to the Colts’ defensive line. Blackmon, who led the team with four interceptions and eight pass defenses in 2023, is a key player in the secondary.
The impact of missing these three players would be considerable. Buckner and Paye are central to the Colts’ defensive line, while Blackmon is a playmaker in the secondary. Their absence could significantly weaken the Colts’ defense, affecting both their pass rush and coverage capabilities.
If Buckner and Paye are out, it would ease the task for the Packers’ offensive line in terms of run-blocking. The Colts struggled against the run last week, allowing 213 rushing yards to the Houston Texans. While the Colts might try to compensate by focusing on run defense and pressuring Willis to pass, the loss of Buckner and Paye could make it easier for the Packers’ offensive line to create running lanes for Josh Jacobs and establish a ground game.
Green Bay needs everything to go their way this week. The defense, led by Jeff Hafley, must step up to force turnovers and avoid penalties. Despite the challenges, the Packers must find a way to move the ball effectively, whether through the ground game or with Willis making key plays.
The Packers’ upcoming schedule, including a game against the Titans in Week 3, could work in their favor. Malik Willis, who has previous experience with the Titans and familiarity with the Colts’ defensive schemes, might find some advantage in facing these teams. His knowledge of their systems could provide a critical edge in these games.
Overall, while the Packers are grappling with significant challenges, the Colts’ injury situation could present an opportunity for an upset if Willis and the Green Bay offense can capitalize on the weakened defense.
