Jordan Love won’t play today against the Ravens after failing to clear the NFL concussion protocol. The Packers will turn to backup Malik Willis for a critical Week 17 matchup at Lambeau Field. Both teams face serious playoff implications tonight as Baltimore fights to keep their season alive.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Jordan Love ruled out with concussion after Week 16 Bears game
- Malik Willis makes start on prime-time Saturday with 2-0 record in previous starts
- Ravens are 7-8 and face win-or-go-home scenario in critical playoff race
- Packers clinched playoff spot Thursday when Lions lost to Vikings
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Jordan Love took a helmet-to-helmet hit from Chicago’s Austin Booker in the second quarter of the Packers’ 22-16 overtime loss to the Bears last week. The star quarterback was immediately ruled out of Week 16 action and placed into the NFL concussion protocol.
By Friday morning, the Packers officially downgraded Love from questionable to out. Head coach Matt LaFleur confirmed Love did not clear all stages of the protocol. The quarterback also dealt with a left shoulder injury during the game, adding to recovery concerns heading into this crucial matchup.
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Malik Willis enters this matchup with an impressive track record as a starting quarterback. In his two previous starts for the Packers in 2024, Willis completed 25 of 33 passes for 324 yards, 2 touchdowns, and zero interceptions. His 2-0 record gives the Packers confidence despite stepping in on short notice.
The Auburn product also turned 12 rushing attempts into 71 yards in those starts, adding dual-threat capability to Green Bay’s offense. Willis is playing through a shoulder injury of his own, suffered in the Ravens game. His free agency prospects improve significantly with a strong performance on national television.
Playoff Stakes and Team Statistics Heading Into Week 17
| Team | Record | Points Per Game | Playoff Status |
| Green Bay Packers | 9-5-1 | 24.3 | Clinched |
| Baltimore Ravens | 7-8 | 23.9 | Mathematically Alive |
The Packers clinched a playoff berth Christmas Day when Detroit lost to Minnesota. However, Green Bay still competes with Chicago for the NFC North title. A win tonight keeps playoff seeding in contention as the season finale approaches.
For Baltimore, this is literally win-or-go-home territory. The Ravens dropped three of their last four games and sit at 7-8. Even if they beat Green Bay, Baltimore can be eliminated Sunday if Pittsburgh beats Cleveland. Head coach John Harbaugh calls this a must-win.
Lamar Jackson Doubtful With Deep-Tissue Back Contusion
Adding to the Ravens’ concerns, Lamar Jackson is listed as doubtful after suffering a deep-tissue contusion in his back during Week 16. The star quarterback missed all three days of practice this week. If Jackson cannot go, Tyler Huntley will make his first start in weeks.
Jackson’s injury-plagued season includes hamstring, toe, ankle, and knee issues on top of the current back problem. Ravens offensive coordinator adjustments may be necessary if the MVP-caliber quarterback remains sidelined against Green Bay’s defense.
Can the Packers Keep Rolling Without Their Star QB?
This Week 17 contest represents a monumental test for both offensives working through adversity. The Packers must maintain their dominant air attack despite losing Love’s experience and arm strength. Conversely, the Ravens attempt to stay alive in their darkest late-season stretch.
Lambeau Field’s frozen surface and prime-time spotlight create additional pressure for both backup quarterbacks. Willis gets his showcase moment on NBC as he rebuilds his starting QB credentials. Huntley must lead a desperate Ravens team if Jackson cannot play. Only one team escapes Wisconsin with their season still alive.
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