The NFL season is in full swing, and as the Green Bay Packers prepare to face their division rivals, the Minnesota Vikings, on September 29, all eyes are on Malik Willis. Having joined the Packers in a surprising off-season move, the young quarterback finds himself at the helm of one of the NFL’s most storied franchises after Jordan Love’s injury.
However, even though the youngster has led his team to their recent victory against the Titans, his performance against the Vikings will be a defining moment in the Packer’s season. If it even happens, that is. Love will be a game time decision. However, if it is Willis, fans are eager to see if he has what it takes to lead the team to another victory in this key matchup.
The Packers’ Offensive Scheme
Under head coach Matt LaFleur, the Packers have employed a balanced offensive scheme that emphasizes both the running game and play-action passing. These factors will play a huge role in improving the team’s odds of winning against the Vikings.
Currently, the odds at the best offshore sportsbooks favor the Packers and sit at -130 on various local betting platforms. Although slight underdogs, the Vikings’ odds aren’t that bad either going into the game. Their odds sit at +120 as bookmakers expect the game to be a tight contest. However, with talented running backs Aaron Jones and AJ Dillon in the backfield, Green Bay boasts one of the most dynamic rushing attacks in the league. This will provide Willis with a safety net, allowing him to lean on the ground game while he continues to develop as a passer.
The Packers’ offensive line, anchored by veteran left tackle David Bakhtiari, is also one of the league’s best at both pass protection and run blocking. This will give Willis the time he needs in the pocket to make his reads and deliver accurate throws. Additionally, Green Bay’s wide receiver corps, led by Christian Watson and Romeo Doubs, provides Willis with reliable targets who can stretch the field and create separation.
LaFleur’s offense is designed to make life easier for quarterbacks, especially young ones. By relying on play-action, LaFleur can scheme open receivers and simplify Willis’ decision-making process. This approach, coupled with Willis’ athleticism and arm strength, makes the Packers’ offense dangerous, especially when they’re firing on all cylinders.
The Vikings’ Defense: A Tough Test
While the Packers’ offense has the tools to be successful, the Vikings’ defense presents a significant challenge. Under defensive coordinator Brian Flores, the Vikings have been known for their aggressive, blitz-heavy schemes.
Flores loves to dial up pressure from all angles, often disguising his blitzes to confuse opposing quarterbacks. For a young quarterback like Willis, this can be a nightmare scenario.
Minnesota’s defensive front, featuring Danielle Hunter and Harrison Phillips, excels at generating pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Hunter, in particular, is a relentless pass rusher who has a history of causing problems for the Packers’ offensive line. If Willis struggles to identify and evade the Vikings’ blitzes, it could be a long day for the Packers’ offense.
In the secondary, the Vikings have playmakers such as Harrison Smith, one of the NFL’s savviest safeties. Smith is known for his ability to read quarterbacks and bait them into making mistakes. Willis will need to be especially cautious when throwing over the middle of the field, as Smith has a knack for jumping routes and creating turnovers.
However, the Vikings’ defense is not without its weaknesses. Their cornerback group has been vulnerable at times, and if Willis can stay calm under pressure, he can exploit matchups in the secondary.
The Packers will likely look to establish the running game early, forcing the Vikings to commit extra defenders to stop Jones and Dillon. This could open up opportunities for Willis to take deep shots down the field, especially on play-action passes.
Can Willis Handle the Pressure?
The biggest question heading into the Packers-Vikings showdown on September 29 is whether Malik Willis can handle the pressure, both figuratively and literally. This is not just a regular game for the Packers; it’s a divisional rivalry, and a win could go a long way in shaping the team’s playoff hopes.
Willis has yet to prove that he can perform consistently in high-pressure situations at the NFL level. While he has shown flashes of brilliance, he has also made costly mistakes, particularly when faced with heavy pressure. The Vikings’ defense will undoubtedly test his ability to make quick decisions and avoid turnovers.
One factor that could work in Willis’ favor is his mobility. Unlike many quarterbacks, Willis can escape the pocket and make plays with his legs. If the Vikings’ pass rush becomes too overwhelming, Willis can use his athleticism to extend plays and pick up crucial yards on the ground. This dual-threat capability could be the X-factor that tilts the game in the Packers’ favor.