The Green Bay Packers had their load lightened slightly on Christmas Day when the Detroit Lions fell to the Minnesota Vikings in the first games of Week 17, which saw them officially qualify for the postseason.
However, despite losing to the Chicago Bears last weekend in spectacular fashion, the Packers could still see themselves be crowned NFC North champions if they win out and the Bears lose the rest of their regular season games.
And if they are to get that valuable home playoff game, the run for the division title will have to start in Week 17’s Saturday night game hosting the Baltimore Ravens.
However, over the past few days since Week 16’s loss, the Packers have not known which quarterback will be facing the Ravens, as Jordan Love suffered a concussion in the second quarter of last weekend’s game, and Malik Willis obtained a shoulder injury towards the end of the game.
Now, the team has revealed what the playing statuses are for both Love and Willis, two days ahead of their still-important late-season matchup.
“Packers QBs Jordan Love and Malik Willis are both questionable for Saturday night, while Ravens QB Lamar Jackson is doubtful.” NFL Networks’ Tom Pelissero wrote on X.
Packers – Ravens Could End Up Being Backup Vs Backup
The Packers, at present, do not know exactly who will suit up for them on Saturday night. One of the two could be healthy, as could both – in which case Love would be named the starter.
There is a nightmare scenario in which neither are cleared to play, in which case former fifth round pick for the Arizona Cardinals, Clayton Tune, would likely be the next man up at quarterback.
Willis seemed fairly confident that he would be able to play on Saturday if Love was not cleared from concussion protocol, when asked earlier in the week.
If that eventuality does roll around, we could see a slightly unusual QB2 vs QB2 situation emerging, with Lamar Jackson also officially “doubtful” to start.
A loss in Week 17 will formally end Baltimore’s playoff hopes for the 2025 season, as they need to win both of their remaining games against Green Bay and Pittsburgh, in addition to hoping that the Shedeur Sanders-led Cleveland Browns overcome the Steelers on Sunday.
More to follow..
Packers Get Major Update On Both Quarterbacks’ Playing Statuses