No Love, No Problem

Any uncertainty about how the Packers would fare without Jordan Love was quickly put to rest — or rather, steamrolled — by Josh Jacobs. The Colts' run defense, characterized by its poor, porous, and even pitiful performance, struggled to contain the various rushing plays head coach Matt LaFleur threw at them. Although the final score might not fully reflect it, Green Bay maintained steady control throughout the game. Indianapolis only had a fleeting chance to take the lead with about 40 seconds remaining. While the Packers are traditionally known for their quarterback play, this feel-good game, unsurprisingly, was led by their running backs. Here are four takeaways from the Packers’ home opener.

Matt LaFleur Has One of the Best Minds in the League

Any doubts about whether Matt LaFleur is simply another coach who relies on an elite quarterback were decisively answered in this game. LaFleur entered the matchup knowing that their passing game would be limited with Malik Willis under center, who lacks both NFL experience and familiarity with the Packers’ system. The victory without Jordan Love speaks less to Love's individual abilities and more to LaFleur's coaching brilliance. Despite knowing the Packers would predominantly run the ball, the Colts were unable to stop them, thanks to LaFleur’s inventive play calling. He kept the Indianapolis defense on its toes with a mix of fakes, sweeps, and motions. There were concerns about whether the Packers’ offense would be able to function without Love, and the Packers came out guns blazing with 164 rushing yards in the first quarter — the most by an NFL team in the opening quarter since the 2011 Broncos.

Josh Jacobs Was the Workhorse

If there was any employee working overtime, it was Josh Jacobs. Jacobs, along with Marshawn Lloyd and Emanuel Wilson, was crucial in keeping the offense moving and effective. The fact that the Colts’ run defense is worse than initially thought helped, of course. Jacobs had a standout performance with 32 carries for 151 yards, including a career-high 128 yards in the first half alone. 

Jacobs did make one critical mistake that could have sealed the game earlier — a fumble at the goal line that prevented what would have been a touchdown. Aside from the one fumble, Jacobs was the key player who made this victory possible. This is what it’s like to have your opponent run all over you with no ability to stop them. Now the Packers understand what the Niners felt like in the NFC Championship game — a scenario that haunts Packers fans. Colts’ fans will certainly have their own nightmares this week about Josh Jacobs and their vulnerable run defense, which still hasn’t found a solution.

The Defense Got the Job Done and More

While the defense's improved performance might be partly attributed to the differing skill levels of the Eagles and Colts offenses, the Packers executed their game plan effectively. Green Bay’s defense allowed only three points in the first 58 minutes. This improvement is noteworthy, especially considering past games where the Packers allowed career-best performances from players like Tommy DeVito and Bryce Young. Unlike the Texans game, the Colts offense did not look like it could come up with any answers against the Packers. Hafley capitalized on Anthony Richardson’s inexperience, as it was just his sixth NFL start, and relentlessly pressured him throughout the game. Richardson threw three interceptions — one of which was a Fail Mary — bringing the Packers’ interception total to five in just two games, compared to the mere seven interceptions in 17 regular-season games last year. Richardson’s explosive arm and quick legs were so contained that viewers might have forgotten he was even on the field. 

The Kicker Situation is Not a Long-Term Solution

Although Brayden Narveson seems to be a better option than Greg Joseph and Anders Carlson — not exactly the most difficult challenge — he has already tied for the most field goal attempts in the league with eight through just two games. It’s worth noting that such a high volume of attempts is significant for a rookie. In the season opener, he missed a 43-yarder that could have helped change the loss to a more favorable outcome. In the home opener, he missed another 43-yarder, though this time, it didn't affect the result. Every Superman has its kryptonite, and for Narveson, it might be kicking from 43 yards — let’s just pray there are no game-winning field goals needed from that distance! Until he consistently makes field goals under 50 yards, no one should feel too secure about the rookie kicker’s position.

The key takeaway from this game is that the Packers can win without Jordan Love, at least against their upcoming opponents. It was a showcase of complementary football at its best. The defense performed effectively, punter Daniel Whelan ensured the Colts had to navigate a long field, and Malik Willis made sound decisions while executing the game plan efficiently. For Jordan Love and the Packers, it all comes down to making a comfortable decision, not a rushed one, and this game allowed that. Optimistically, it sounds like a favorable decision might come soon with the status of Jordan Love’s injury. Reports indicate that Green Bay wasn’t bluffing, and Love is close to returning to action. With or without Love, the Packers will now turn their attention to their next opponent, the Titans, who are seeking their first win after two losses.