The Green Bay Packers improved to 2-0 for the first time since 2020 with a convincing 27-18 victory over the Washington Commanders at Lambeau Field on Thursday night. The win builds on their season opener success and sends a strong message across the NFL.
Key Highlights & Player Performances
Jordan Love leads the charge: The Packers quarterback threw for 292 yards and two touchdown passes. One went to Romeo Doubs in the first quarter; the other, an 8-yard connection, was with tight end Tucker Kraft with 8:57 remaining in the fourth, putting the game largely out of reach.
Tucker Kraft breaks out: Kraft recorded a career-high 124 receiving yards on six catches, making a case for himself as a clear go-to target.
Josh Jacobs secures short-yardage TD: Jacobs scored on a 2-yard run, continuing his streak of delivering in goal-line situations.
Packers’ defense stands tall: Newly acquired Micah Parsons made a significant impact, recording a half-sack, three QB hits, and generally causing disruption throughout. Green Bay’s defensive front put relentless pressure on Washington’s quarterback Jayden Daniels, sacking him multiple times.
Struggles for the Commanders
Offensive stagnation early: Washington managed just 11 yards on their first three possessions and were kept off the scoreboard until a field goal late in the first half.
Injury setbacks: The game came with unfortunate injury news. Packers’ wide receiver Jayden Reed broke his collarbone on what would have been a long touchdown catch early in the game (that was negated by penalty). Several Commanders players, including Austin Ekeler (Achilles), also exited the game with injuries.
Late game push falls short: Jayden Daniels tried to spark a comeback with two touchdowns in the fourth quarter—one to Zach Ertz, another to Deebo Samuel—and even converted a two-point attempt. But Green Bay answered each time, maintaining control and keeping Washington at bay.
Implications & What’s Next
Packers’ momentum building: Starting the season 2-0 with convincing wins over playoff teams from last season puts Green Bay on strong footing. The offense looks more dynamic, and the defensive acquisitions are visibly paying off.
Commanders must regroup: At 1-1, Washington must address offensive line protection, run game inefficiencies, and overcome injuries if they want to maintain their contender status in the NFC.
Key trends to watch: How Micah Parsons continues to impact games, how Tucker Kraft builds on his breakout performance, and whether Jordan Love can sustain early season consistency. Also, how the Commanders recover from a rough night and get their injured players back will be critical.
Bottom Line
The Packers’ 27-18 win over Washington was not just a win—it was a statement. With big plays, strong defense, and depth showing up even as injuries mounted, Green Bay looks like a team capable of making noise this season. The Commanders, meanwhile, showed flashes but need solutions fast to avoid dropping into a deficit in their schedule.
