Malik Willis is proving the Packers can win without Jordan Love vs. Colts

Green Bay Packers quarterback Malik Willis
Green Bay Packers quarterback Malik Willis / Patrick McDermott/GettyImages
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Malik Willis only threw the ball twice in the first quarter, but he has made plays when required in the Green Bay Packers' first game without Jordan Love.

After one quarter, the Packers had rushed 20 times for 164 yards, an incredible start to the game. Willis played a part in that with a designed quarterback run that went for 12 yards. He later scrambled for another first down on a 19-yard run.

Matt LaFleur hasn't asked Willis to do much, leaning heavily on the ground game, but he has looked poised, comfortable, and made every play he has needed to.

Had it not been for a Josh Jacobs fumble on the goal line, the Packers would've opened a 17-0 lead.

Malik Willis throws a touchdown pass in first quarter of first Packers start

Willis didn't throw a touchdown in three career starts for the Tennessee Titans. He already has his first with the Packers, and it only took a quarter.

Willis is perfectly executing the game plan. The Packers were always going to simplify the offense and find ways to take the pressure off of him, but he also needs to play his part. Willis has found his receivers when required, and when nothing is there, he has shown his ability to escape the pocket and pick up yards on the ground.

The Packers need to find ways to win without Love, who might not return until Week 5. It takes a strong effort on both sides of the ball, but LaFleur needs to trust Willis to make plays when he has to. So far, he has proven this team can move the ball without their star quarterback.

Nobody gave him a chance, but Willis has silenced his doubters with an impressive start to Week 2.

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