Quarterback Jordan Love and the Packers’ passing game was as explosive as ever against the Detroit Lions.
Sunday afternoon, in Week 1, Love sliced, diced, and carved up the Lions’ secondary, executing head coach Matt LaFleur’s scheme at the highest level, powering a 27-13 statement victory over the defending NFC North champions.
However, it might take a more balanced effort for the Packers to topple one of the most talented rosters, from to bottom in the NFC, the Washington Commanders on Thursday night.
Packers need more out of running game vs. the Commanders
Green Bay Packers running back Josh Jacobs (8) jukes past Detroit Lions defensive end Marcus Davenport (92) on Sunday, September 7, 2025, at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wis. The Packers won the game, 27-13.
Tork Mason/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin
In the opener, Josh Jacobs managed just 3.5 yards per carry while rushing for 66 yards and a score.
As Week 2 against Washington nears, PackersWire analyst Brandon Carwile suggests that a lackluster running game might not just continue but could be Green Bay’s biggest worry on Thursday night.
“Green Bay couldn’t get much going on the ground last week,” Carwile writes. “Josh Jacobs received six carries in the first half and totaled just eight yards. By the end of the game, he was up to 66 rushing yards and continued his nine-game touchdown streak, but needed 19 carries to do so. Green Bay’s new and improved offensive line wasn’t effective in creating room for a backfield that starts the season averaging just 3.1 yards per carry. Meanwhile, Washington’s run defense was stout in Week 1, holding New York to 74 yards on 23 carries (3.2 YPC). The Packers aren’t going to steer away from Jacobs, but their lead back could be in for another long day at the office on Thursday.”
Washington stifling the Giants’ ground game, which was New York’s strength entering this season, is a bit of a warning for the Packers.
Jacobs is one of the most explosive running backs in the league, and if the Packers can get him going it would go a long way towards pulling off a second consecutive win to start the season.
Detroit Lions linebacker Derrick Barnes (55) tackles Green Bay Packers running back Josh Jacobs (8) during the second half at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wis., on Sunday, September 7, 2025.