Packers’ Malik Willis Runs Instead of Passing After Center’s Unfortunate Incident

The Green Bay Packers gave their all on the field in their latest matchup against the Indianapolis Colts, but not without encountering an unexpected and rather unpleasant situation. With starting quarterback Jordan Love sidelined due to a knee injury sustained during the Packers’ season opener against the Philadelphia Eagles in Brazil, backup Malik Willis was called into action upon the team’s return to Lambeau Field.

Willis, who joined the Packers just three weeks ago following a trade from the Tennessee Titans on August 26, had a challenging debut. Despite his efforts, he faced an unforeseen complication during a critical moment of the game.

In the second quarter, with the Packers facing a third-and-10 situation, center Josh Myers experienced a distressing incident. Before snapping the ball, Myers was seen vomiting on the field, and, unfortunately, some of it landed on the football.

Faced with this unsanitary predicament, Willis decided to forgo the usual pass play on third down and instead took off running. He gained about three yards before being tackled. Packers head coach Matt LeFleur later revealed that Willis opted to run because Myers had vomited on the ball.

“I asked Malik why he didn’t throw the ball on that third down, and he told me Josh threw up on the ball,” said LeFleur. “I was like, ‘That’s the first time I ever heard that!’”

The unusual situation even prompted a response from the officials. According to LeFleur, an official approached him and asked if he wanted them to remove Myers from the game if it happened again. LeFleur agreed, emphasizing the gravity of the situation during such a crucial moment.

Myers, reflecting on the incident, admitted he felt a lump in his throat and was unsure if it was related to the electrolyte drinks provided to the players. Nevertheless, he pushed through the discomfort, focusing on his responsibilities.

“I’ve got to do my job,” Myers stated after the game, as reported by USA TODAY. “Unfortunately, no one cares if I’m throwing up if I give up a sack, you know? So I’ve got to block him. So I’m just like, ‘Oh my God. I can’t not block this guy right now. I have to get this.’ Pretty much the only thing going through my mind.”

Myers also revealed that he had a similar incident during a game against the Eagles, underscoring the physical and mental challenges faced by players on the field.

Despite the unusual distraction, the Packers managed to secure a hard-fought 16-10 victory over the Colts, advancing to a 1-1 record for the season. This win marked a historic milestone for Green Bay, as they became the first NFL franchise to reach 800 wins.

In his first start for the Packers, Malik Willis completed 12 of 14 pass attempts for 122 yards and secured his first NFL touchdown. The Packers’ ground game was particularly effective, amassing 261 rushing yards. Running back Josh Jacobs had a standout performance with 151 yards on 32 carries, while Willis contributed an additional 41 yards on the ground.

For the Colts, quarterback Anthony Richardson had a challenging outing, finishing 17 of 34 for 204 yards, one touchdown, and three interceptions. With this loss, the Colts dropped to 0-2 for the season, following a narrow defeat to the Houston Texans in Week 1.

The Packers’ resilience in overcoming the strange and challenging circumstances highlighted their determination and ability to perform under pressure, ensuring a memorable and hard-earned victory.