Commander's - Packers Storylines
Who is the favorite for thursday nights game?
1) Lambeau’s Week 1 buzz sets up Thursday showdown
Green Bay opened the season in style, with Lambeau Field turning into a party atmosphere as Micah Parsons debuted and the Packers dismantled the Lions. The celebration doesn’t last long, though — just four days later, the crowd will be back for another tough test against Washington and their electrifying quarterback, Jayden Daniels.
Both teams showcased sturdy defenses and flashes of offensive rhythm in their openers. Jordan Love looked sharp early against Detroit and stayed out of trouble with the football. Now he’ll face a Commanders unit that completely smothered the Giants, holding them to just six points.
The Thursday night clash quietly carries major NFC implications, with two potential contenders squaring off in only Week 2. Parsons’ arrival gave Green Bay’s defense an instant jolt — three pressures, one that directly led to a pick, plus a late sack that capped off his first night in the green and gold. His energy lifted the rest of the defense, and he’ll be counted on again against Washington’s explosive attack.
Parsons has a history of wrecking the Commanders, piling up 10.5 sacks in eight games — nearly double his total against any other team. That includes 4.5 last year alone against Daniels. He also has past duels with left tackle Laremy Tunsil, who has held his own by not giving up a sack in their two head-to-heads. This time, though, Parsons might see plenty of rookie right tackle Josh Conerly Jr., who struggled against the Giants’ pass rush in his first NFL action. The Packers have typically played mobile quarterbacks with containment in mind, rushing carefully to keep them inside the pocket.
Parsons logged 29 snaps out of 65 in the opener, more than the Packers had originally planned. With a quick turnaround, his workload against Washington will be something to watch.
2) Daniels and Samuel give Washington firepower
Washington entered 2025 with an offense that was already among the league’s best and went out to make it even scarier. They drafted two new tackles and landed do-it-all weapon Deebo Samuel, who immediately showed his value in Week 1.
Against New York, Samuel caught seven passes for 77 yards, lined up in the slot most of the day, ripped off a 19-yard touchdown run, and even handled kick returns. He’s clearly going to be used all over the field.
Daniels didn’t have his cleanest game — Washington left points on the board — but the potential was obvious. His passing can be inconsistent, yet his legs remain a nightmare for defenses, and Green Bay will have to account for him on every snap. Despite a right wrist injury appearing on the early-week report, Daniels has practiced fully, and coach Dan Quinn isn’t worried.
One area the Commanders are sure to exploit is the slot. Packers nickel corner Javon Bullard was targeted relentlessly in Week 1, giving up 10 catches on 11 attempts for 73 yards. Expect Samuel to test him often.
3) Love starts well, but Washington defense looks stout
If Parsons is the piece that puts Green Bay over the top, Jordan Love is the one who has to carry them there. He looked the part against Detroit, throwing two first-half touchdowns and converting a crucial fourth down that set up the knockout score. His injured thumb didn’t seem to bother him, though he did have a few shaky moments that the Lions couldn’t capitalize on.
Washington’s defense, meanwhile, looked every bit the championship-caliber unit they’ve been trying to build. They dominated New York, surrendering just six points, 231 total yards, and allowing only four third-down conversions on 16 attempts. The front was disruptive with Daron Payne and Javon Kinlaw inside, Dorance Armstrong and Deatrich Wise coming off the edge, and Marshon Lattimore looking rejuvenated in coverage.
For Green Bay, running the ball more consistently with Josh Jacobs will be crucial, but Love also has to push the ball vertically. Romeo Doubs showed signs of breaking out, rookie Matthew Golden flashed, and Jayden Reed plus Dontayvion Wicks continue to be important pieces. Tight end Tucker Kraft also figures into the equation after finding the end zone in Week 1.