In a game that showcased the emerging prowess of the Green Bay Packers, quarterback Jordan Love led his team to a 27–18 victory over the Washington Commanders on Thursday night at Lambeau Field. The win marked the Packers’ second straight to open the 2025 NFL season, putting them at 2–0 for the first time since 2020 and fueling optimism about the team’s future under Love’s leadership.
Love, stepping confidently into the role once held by Aaron Rodgers, put together one of the most complete performances of his young career. He finished the game with 292 passing yards and two touchdowns, commanding the field with poise and accuracy. One of his most crucial connections of the night came in the fourth quarter, when he found tight end Tucker Kraft for an 8-yard touchdown that helped secure the victory. Kraft, enjoying a breakout performance, recorded six receptions for 124 yards—a career high—and proved to be a reliable target in clutch moments.
Green Bay got off to a fast start, jumping out to a 14–0 lead thanks to a pair of early touchdowns. The first came on a precise throw from Love to wide receiver Romeo Doubs, followed by a short-yardage rushing score from running back Josh Jacobs. The Packers dominated time of possession and kept the Commanders’ defense on the field with long, methodical drives. At halftime, Green Bay held a 14–3 lead, with Washington managing only a field goal in response.
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The Commanders showed signs of life in the second half, as rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels tried to mount a comeback. Daniels connected with veteran tight end Zach Ertz for a touchdown that cut into the deficit early in the fourth quarter. However, Green Bay quickly responded with the aforementioned touchdown drive capped by Kraft’s reception, pushing the lead to double digits once again. The Packers later added a field goal to extend their advantage. Daniels would go on to find wide receiver Deebo Samuel for a late touchdown, but the clock was not on Washington’s side. The Packers’ defense held firm to close out the game.
Statistically, Green Bay was in control throughout the contest. The Packers racked up 404 total yards to Washington’s 230 and consistently converted on third down, keeping drives alive and the Commanders’ defense on its heels. Love’s decision-making under pressure and the Packers’ well-balanced offensive strategy gave them the edge in both execution and rhythm. Green Bay also controlled the trenches, with their offensive line keeping Love upright and their defensive front pressuring Daniels throughout the night.
While the Packers celebrated a convincing win, the night was far less encouraging for the Commanders, who not only struggled offensively but also suffered significant injuries that could alter the trajectory of their season. Running back Austin Ekeler, one of the team’s key offensive weapons, was carted off the field in the fourth quarter with what team officials believe is a torn Achilles tendon—a potentially season-ending injury. Defensive lineman Deatrich Wise Jr. also exited the game with a quadriceps injury and did not return. For Green Bay, wide receiver Jayden Reed sustained a fractured collarbone after a hard hit on a deep reception that was ultimately negated by a penalty, further highlighting the physical toll of the matchup.
The Packers now head into Week 3 with growing confidence and a sense of momentum that had been lacking in recent seasons. With Love continuing to show progress and key contributors like Kraft stepping up, Green Bay’s offense appears to be finding its rhythm. Their defense, though tested at times, has remained resilient and opportunistic, applying pressure and limiting big plays.
For Washington, the road ahead is more uncertain. The loss of Ekeler—one of their most consistent playmakers—will require a swift adjustment in their offensive scheme. Rookie quarterback Daniels, though showing flashes of talent, was sacked multiple times and appeared rattled under pressure. The Commanders will need to regroup quickly if they hope to remain competitive in a tough NFC East division.
As the NFL season gains momentum, Green Bay’s early success has begun to draw national attention. With a young core, growing chemistry, and a clear identity, the Packers are positioning themselves as a team to watch. Meanwhile, Washington will need to make critical decisions in the coming weeks to stay afloat, especially as injuries begin to test the depth of their roster.