INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (WFRV) — Like Malik Willis did in Week 2 of the regular season last year against the Indianapolis Colts, Green Bay’s backup quarterback will fill in for an injured Jordan Love, this time in the second week of the preseason in Indy.
“I’m just excited for the opportunity, excited to go out there and have some fun and play this game that I love,” Willis added. “It’s not about doing anything crazy, it’s about making sure that we stay on schedule and we continue to do what we can to make plays.”
In the Packers’ preseason loss last week against the New York Jets, Willis threw for just 39 yards, completing four of his nine passes.
Packers Head Coach Matt LaFleur spoke earlier this week about what he wants to see from Willis, with Jordan Love sidelined due to a left thumb injury.
“I just think it’s about putting together consistent performances,” LaFleur added. “And given the circumstances, I can’t imagine him going out and doing much better than he did last season [against the Colts], and hopefully he’ll continue to progress.”
In the Packers’ joint practice with the Colts on Thursday, it was clear there was some frustration from the offensive starters after what really was a lackluster day for the Green Bay offense against the Indianapolis defense. Tight end Tucker Kraft said he felt like the group, as a whole, could’ve done more.
“We left some meat on the bone. We were doing a good job out here competing, but we know the level we expect to play at. I, personally, think we didn’t empty the tank,” Kraft said.
Against the Colts, Willis will take the field without Green Bay’s starters, but with or without the starters, the assignment ahead remains just as serious as Willis tries to cement himself as a proven and polished quarterback in the NFL.
Kickoff for the Packers’ second preseason game of the year against the Colts is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 16, at 1 p.m. (Noon central time).
