written & photos by: JUAN MOORE/outlook news
JACKSONVILLE, FL –In a thrilling showdown in Jacksonville, the Green Bay Packers showcased their resilience, edging out the Jaguars 30-27 despite losing quarterback Jordan Love to a left groin injury early in the game. This latest setback for Love raises serious questions about his availability in the weeks ahead, especially after he previously missed two games due to a sprained left knee.
Coach Matt LaFleur expressed significant concern about Love’s condition following the game. The Packers were forced to rely on backup Malik Willis, who stepped in and delivered a performance that not only secured the victory but also instilled confidence in the team moving forward.
Willis, demonstrating poise under pressure, completed 4 of 5 passes for 56 yards, including a critical 51-yard strike to Jayden Reed that set up the game-winning field goal by Brandon McManus. This wasn’t just any completion; it was a pivotal moment that showcased Willis’s ability to rise to the occasion. LaFleur noted that the moment was never too big for Willis, who made significant plays not just with his arm but by managing the game effectively.
The Packers, now boasting a solid 6-2 record, were able to rebound from a challenging situation. With Love sidelined, Willis capitalized on a defensive lapse from the Jaguars. Safety Andre Cisco suffered from cramps, leaving Reed wide open down the left sideline, a scenario that played perfectly into the Packers’ hands. Reed was confident in his route, having anticipated the opening before the play was even called.
The Jaguars, sitting at a disappointing 2-6, fought back valiantly, with quarterback Trevor Lawrence connecting on a beautifully placed 14-yard touchdown pass to tight end Evan Engram, tying the game at 27. Engram made a spectacular catch, threading the needle between three defenders and swinging momentum back in Jacksonville’s favor. However, the Jaguars’ inability to maintain that momentum was marred by mistakes, including a fumble from Lawrence deep in the red zone and an interception that stifled potential scoring drives.
Lawrence’s stat line was impressive—21 completions on 32 attempts for 308 yards—but he acknowledged the team’s need for improvement. The Jaguars can’t afford to continue making errors that extend drives for their opponents. A series of penalties against the defense allowed Green Bay to maintain offensive rhythm at critical junctures, further compounding their struggles.
In addition to Love’s absence, the Jaguars faced a slew of injuries that decimated their receiving corps. Brian Thomas Jr., Christian Kirk, and Gabe Davis all left the game due to various ailments, putting a strain on their offensive strategy. Kirk’s departure was particularly impactful, as he sustained a shoulder injury while attempting a diving catch, quickly ruling him out for the rest of the contest. The Jaguars also lost cornerback Ronald Darby, right guard Brandon Scherff, and left guard Ezra Cleveland, with Scherff being the only one able to return to action.
The Packers’ offense took advantage of Jacksonville’s defensive vulnerabilities, especially against tight ends. Rookie Tucker Kraft emerged as a key player, recording a 67-yard reception that showcased his ability to break tackles and create plays after the catch. Kraft’s contributions were vital, as he also caught a 3-yard touchdown pass in the fourth quarter. Given the recent trend of tight ends exploiting Jacksonville’s defense, Kraft’s performance was hardly surprising, following in the footsteps of players like New England’s Hunter Henry and Chicago’s Cole Kmet, who had previously torched the Jaguars’ secondary.
The game had additional layers of intrigue with McManus returning to Jacksonville, where he played last season. The kicker’s performance was solid, nailing three field goals, including the decisive 24-yarder that clinched the win for the Packers. McManus’s journey has been complicated by off-field issues, including a legal battle stemming from allegations made against him during his time with the Jaguars. However, the NFL found no evidence of a personal conduct policy violation, allowing him to focus on his new role with Green Bay.
In terms of injuries, the Packers also faced setbacks, with rookie safety Evan Williams exiting the game due to a hamstring injury. The team’s depth will be tested in the coming weeks as they navigate these challenges.
Looking ahead, the Jaguars face a daunting task as they prepare to visit Philadelphia, where head coach Doug Pederson will return to the city he once called home. The upcoming clash will be critical for Jacksonville as they attempt to right the ship amid a season filled with adversity.
As for the Packers, the path forward hinges on Jordan Love’s recovery. If Willis can replicate his performance and the team can stay healthy, Green Bay could position itself as a formidable contender in the NFC. The resilience shown against the Jaguars is a testament to their potential, but the looming uncertainty surrounding their starting quarterback will be a storyline to watch in the weeks to come.