Green Bay Packers back-up quarterback Jordan Love felt 'prepared' as he replaced Aaron Rodgers on Sunday, and he may be hoping to keep things that way.
The Packers travelled to Philadelphia in Sunday's late game, and put on a blockbuster NFL game as they lost 40-33 to the Eagles. Jalen Hurts once again proved his worth for the side with the best record in the NFL, but the veteran that is Rodgers couldn't finish the game.
Not only has Rodgers been nursing an injured thumb, but a big hit led to injured ribs against the Eagles and he was forced to exit the game. Love came in and threw a 63-yard touchdown, and has hinted to Packers chiefs that he will only get better with more opportunities.
Love checked into the game as the Packers trailed 33-24, and to his credit, put in a winning performance while he was on the field. The score was 9-7 in their favour while he was in the quarterback role, although it wasn't enough to salvage the situation.
A 63-yard touchdown with Christian Watson was his standout contribution during the remainder of the game, and Love has hinted that it's time to give him more opportunities. "I felt more prepared," Love said in his postgame media session.
"It just comes down to reps and getting those reps and getting comfortable executing those plays. The more I can get, the more the situation is more comfortable."
And Love's positive performance didn't come as a surprise to head coach Matt LaFleur, who thinks that the back-up is getting better with every practice. "Not shocked," LaFleur said. "(He's) continued to get better and better each and every day in practice.
With Rodgers clearly playing through pain, and with the Packers close to being eliminated from play-off contention, it could be a good opportunity to play Love and prepare for next season. But Rodgers is having none of it, and feels confident he will be back for their next game against the Chicago Bears.
"As long as I check out fine tomorrow I expect to play this weekend," he said. "I might not be able to go Wednesday, but as long as there’s no major structural damage, I’ll try to get back out there."
Rodgers first feared that he had punctured a lung, but initial scans ruled this out. However, he will undergo more scans to determine the extent of his injuries.
"We have a five-game stretch, we need to win all five and probably need a little help," Rodgers added. "As long as we’re mathematically alive I’d like to be out there."
