The Green Bay Packers took it to the Detroit Lions to start the season this past Sunday. The Packers looks energized, hungry, and determined in their 27-13 victory over the Lions. As a result of their dominant performance, several members of the media are praising the Packers. The praise might be deserved but it is just one game and the Packers do not have much time to soak it in with the Commanders coming into Lambeau for Thursday Night Football.
The Packers defensive performance against the Lions was one to remember. Green Bay had 9 tackles for a loss, 4 sacks, 1 interception, and held the NFLs top offense in 2024 to 246 total yards and 13 points. In addition to the defense, the Packers offensive execution was solid as well. Jordan Love & co played an impressive game but definitely left some meat on the bone. Overall, Love looked to be in total control. Daniel Whelan, Brandon McManus, and the Packers coverage teams played put forth an impressive effort as well.
The short week games in the NFL are usually a burden. It creates challenges when it comes to player recoveries as well as game plan prep. However, a quick turnaround for Green Bay, might be what they need. With all the praise the team is receiving, the Packers have another opportunity to match their Week 1 performance. Otherwise, that celebratory roar will quickly quiet down.
The Packers Keys to Beating the Commanders
The Packers are battling some injury concerns ahead of their Thursday Night showdown against the Washington Commanders. The offensive line in particular is a major point of concern for Green Bay. Both RT Zach Tom and LG Aaron Banks are listed as questionable and it is unclear if either one will play. As a result, the Packers might be forced to play Jordan Morgan and Darian Kinnard against a stout Washington front seven.
If Tom and Banks cannot play, Love and LaFleur will need to find ways to move the ball effectively. Protection will be a major vocal point of their success. It might require help from the running backs or tight ends. On the other side of the ball, the Packers defense will face a very talented and athletic quarterback in Jayden Daniels. There will be significant emphasis on containing Daniels and flying to the ball to prevent him from breaking free. The Packers must have the same “gang tackling” mentality they used against Jahmyr Gibbs to keep Terry McLaurin, Deebo Samuel, and Zach Ertz in check.
Green Bay was dealt a tough hand by starting the season with the Lions and the Commanders. However, with both games at Lambeau Field, the Packers have a massive opportunity to grab tiebreaker controls over these two top teams early on in 2025. Hopefully, the Packers can quickly flip the focus to the Commanders and bring the same nasty, physical mindset to the game this evening and jump on the chance to start 2-0.
