Coming off a Week 1 divisional win over the New York Giants, the Washington Commanders (1-0) are kicking off Week 2 of the NFL season with a Thursday Night Football game against the Green Bay Packers (1-0) at Lambeau Field. Both teams are operating on a short week after achieving divisional wins in Week 1.
The teams are both vastly different from their last matchup three years ago, and one name could be the difference maker that gives the Packers the edge: Micah Parsons.
Game planning around the All-Pro pass-rusher isn't something new to the Commanders, although that doesn't make stopping him any easier. Parsons is a game wrecker -- he has more sacks against Washington (10.5) than any other opponent he's faced -- and got to quarterback Jayden Daniels 4.5 times in two matchups last season with the Dallas Cowboys. Parsons recorded a sack in his Packers debut, despite a back injury limiting his snap count. The Commanders beefed up their offensive line this offseason with the addition of All-Pro left tackle Laremy Tunsil, which should help fend off Parsons.
The Commanders' passing offense looked like it was still getting in sync, despite them committing eight offensive penalties to push them back 55 yards in total, which doesn't include crucial drops from tight end Zach Ertz and wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. Still, Samuel finished with seven receptions for 77 yards and a rushing touchdown as Washington's leading receiver.
On offense, the Packers have a strong run game led by running back Josh Jacobs, who put up 66 yards on 19 carries and a rushing touchdown, marking nine straight games he has recorded a score. The Commanders' run defense improved from No. 30 at the end of last season to No. 10 following Week 1, in which they allowed the Giants to gain 74 yards on the ground over 23 attempts. Washington held New York's running backs to an average of two yards per carry -- the second lowest of any team in Week 1.
With an average age of 25.23 years old, Green Bay has the youngest roster in the NFL which Washington should look to exploit. Rookie wide receiver Matthew Golden was held to just two catches for 16 yards in his debut versus the Detroit Lions, although it's hard to judge Golden considering he was only targeted twice. That being said, the Commanders have experienced corners in Marshon Lattimore and Mike Sainristil who can lock Golden and WR1 Jayden Reed down.
Playing at Lambeau is one of the toughest environments for opposing teams. It's loud and hostile, which is why the Commanders have been getting used to the noise throughout practice. If they can tune out the noise, limit Parsons and maintain a solid rush defense, Washington can come away with their first road win of the season.