Packers fans are calling for Malik Willis after disastrous performance vs. Vikings
Jordan Love's return couldn't have gone much worse. The Green Bay Packers' franchise quarterback looks rusty, throwing two interceptions (and almost a third) in the first half as the Minnesota Vikings quickly opened up a four-score lead. Yes, you read that right.
The Packers have had too many penalties, dropped passes, and turnovers. They also lost Christian Watson to a concerning ankle injury.
It's not all on Love. The defense has rolled out the red carpet for Sam Darnold and Minnesota's offense, and Love's second interception was spilled by Romeo Doubs into the hands of Shaquill Griffin. Luke Musgrave made it worse as he appeared to jump for the ball that wasn't intended for him.
But Love hasn't looked 100 percent. He has thrown a few passes too low for his receivers, even if they were still catchable. He also moved a little gingerly after taking a hit to his knee in the second quarter.
With the Vikings dominating the game, Packers fans are calling on the team to protect Love and bring backup Malik Willis in.
Packers may need to protect Jordan Love from further injury vs. Vikings
Love needs reps to shake off the rust, but if he isn't fully healthy, the Packers need to consider protecting him from further injury. Fans are calling for Willis to enter the game.
Put Malik Willis in.
— Aaron Rawrdgers (@ARdoppelganger) September 29, 2024
It's time to put Malik Willis in. The game is over, protect Jordan Love.
— Wendell Ferreira (@wendellfp) September 29, 2024
Put Malik Willis in I’ve seen enough
— Bucks After Dark (@BucksAfterDark) September 29, 2024
Any more scoring from Minnesota and it’s Malik Willis time. No need to risk further injury. Pack it up and regroup for next week.
— Eye In The Sky (@The_Green_Gold) September 29, 2024
To make it clear, the Packers shouldn't bench Love for performance, but with the game out of hand, they need to consider protecting him. Minnesota's defense is no joke, and with Green Bay forced to pass, Brian Flores will continue to dial up pressure.
It has been one of the Packers' most embarrassing performances in recent memory, and it's not all on Love—far from it. Jeff Hafley's defense deserves the majority of the blame, allowing touchdowns on four of the Vikings' opening five possessions. Everything has fallen apart since Isaiah McDuffie dropped an interception on the first drive.
But Love also hasn't played well. He looks rusty, which is understandable, but he has missed too many throws and put the ball in danger.
With a comeback becoming close to impossible, Green Bay may need to protect Love and give Willis snaps.
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