When Josh Jacobs was ruled out early in the second quarter in the Green Bay Packers' game against the New York Giants, some fans prepared themselves for the worst.
After losing Tucker Kraft to an ACL tear, the Packers can't afford to lose another offensive playmaker, and Jacobs handles the ball more than just about anyone on the team. Luckily, there have been some positive reports on the severity of his injury.
Jacobs's departure provided an opportunity for both Emanuel Wilson and Chris Brooks to showcase the versatility of Green Bay's RB room. The duo did what they had to do to help secure the win during the star running back's absence, whether that was by rushing the ball or putting in reps as pass blockers.
Packers can handle Josh Jacobs' potential absence with Emanuel Wilson and Chris Brooks
After not seeing the ball during the first quarter of Sunday's game, Wilson went on to record 49 yards and a touchdown. This was his first touchdown of the season and the most yards he's had since the Packers' Week 8 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, during which he recorded 87 total yards, the second-most of the game behind Tucker Kraft's 143.
The third-year player also impressed during a pass-block rep on Giants linebacker Brian Burns. As Burns came off the edge, aiming for Jordan Love, Wilson forced him farther into the backfield and knocked him to the ground as Love completed a 24-yard pass to Matthew Golden.
While Wilson took on the majority of Jacobs's workload, third-string back Chris Brooks still managed to make an impact, despite seeing just five snaps. Recording eight yards on his lone carry late in the first quarter, he went on to produce an incredible pass-blocking rep that bought Love enough to throw a 33-yard pass to Savion Williams.
This was followed closely by a touchdown pass to Christian Watson and a two-point conversion by Wilson, bringing the score to 27-20.
Green Bay's backup running backs continue to play well while remaining under the radar, allowing for wild-card performances that are difficult for defenses to predict. Good news regarding Josh Jacobs's injury continues to be announced, but if he is forced to miss some time, fans shouldn't have too much to worry about with Wilson and Brooks at the ready.