Ravens backup QB Tyler Huntley is set to make his second start of the season after Lamar Jackson was ruled out with a back contusion ahead of tonight’s critical Week 17 matchup against the Packers. The Packers are also starting backup Malik Willis after Jordan Love suffered a concussion, setting the stage for an unusual quarterback battle at Lambeau Field.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Ravens backup QB Tyler Huntley starts for injured Lamar Jackson with a 6-10 career record as starter
- Jackson missed all week of practice with back contusion from being kneed by Patriots defender on Sunday
- Ravens (7-8) face must-win playoff situation; loss likely eliminates team from postseason
- Malik Willis (2-0) leads Packers as backup starter with division title still in play for Green Bay
Huntley Steps into Must-Win Situation Against Backup-Led Packers
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Tyler Huntley, the 27-year-old backup, enters this game as the Ravens’ best option with Lamar Jackson unable to practice all week. Huntley was named to the 2023 Pro Bowl as an injury replacement for Josh Allen and brings game experience to a desperate Baltimore team.
The Ravens fell to 7-8 after Sunday’s loss to the Patriots and now face elimination if they cannot retrieve a win at Lambeau. Huntley has thrown zero interceptions in 47 attempts this season but carries a career 6-10 mark as a starter entering tonight.
Willis Provides Packers Stability Despite Love’s Absence
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Malik Willis boasts an impressive 2-0 record in starts for Green Bay and drives efficiency in what has been praised by coaches as reliable leadership. The former third-round draft pick was acquired via trade and has seized the opportunity to showcase his abilities at this critical juncture.
Green Bay’s rushing game explodes when Willis starts, averaging 224.5 yards per game compared to 123.0 yards when Jordan Love plays. The Packers’ ground game features Aaron Jones and established run-first offensive philosophy under Willis.
Battle-Tested Backup Quarterbacks Face Off in Playoff-Stakes Matchup
| Quarterback | Team | Starter Record | Key Stat |
| Tyler Huntley | Ravens | 6-10 | 0 INTs in 47 attempts |
| Malik Willis | Packers | 2-0 | 224.5 rush yards/game |
Both quarterbacks bring contrasting resume lines. Huntley brings veteran experience but carries a losing record, having split time with Jackson for years in Baltimore. Willis represents upside with momentum on his side, winning games decisively while managing the offense efficiently.
Ravens’ Playoff Hopes Rest on Huntley’s Performance Against Green Bay
Jackson was injured late in the second quarter of Sunday’s contest when kneed in the back by Patriots safety Craig Woodson. Head Coach John Harbaugh indicated Jackson wouldn’t need practice to play if healthy, but the back contusion proved too restrictive throughout the week.
Huntley previously faced Green Bay in 2021, throwing for 215 yards and two touchdowns in a narrow 31-30 loss at M&T Bank Stadium. He rallied the Ravens from a 14-point fourth-quarter deficit, demonstrating his ability to perform under pressure in high-stakes moments.
Can Backup Quarterbacks Lead Their Teams to Division Clinching Performances?
Tonight’s battle at Lambeau Field represents far more than a simple Week 17 matchup. For Baltimore, every down matters with playoff probability hovering near single digits. For Green Bay, victory keeps division hopes alive despite not yet clinching.
The Packers (9-5-1) stand 3-1 all-time at home against the Ravens, controlling the all-time series 5-2. Willis will look to extend his undefeated streak while Huntley seeks redemption against a division rival under impossible circumstances.
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