Packers Outlast Commanders in Week 2 Thriller: Key Highlights and Injuries

Green Bay, WI — September 12, 2025 — The Green Bay Packers moved to 2-0 with a hard-fought 27-18 victory over the Washington Commanders in a Thursday Night Football showdown at Lambeau Field. Despite a strong start, the Packers faced challenges in the second half as the Commanders mounted a comeback, but a dominant defensive performance, led by Micah Parsons, secured the win. Here’s a recap of the game’s highlights, injuries, and key moments.

Game Summary

The Packers came out firing in the first half, showcasing offensive efficiency and defensive prowess. Jordan Love connected with Romeo Doubs for a 48-yard gain early, setting the tone, and later found tight end Tucker Kraft for a touchdown in the second quarter. Running back Josh Jacobs added a rushing touchdown, giving Green Bay a commanding 7- lead at halftime. The defense, anchored by Parsons, limited Washington to just 90 yards in the first two quarters.

Key Highlights

Tucker Kraft’s Career Night: Kraft delivered a standout performance, hauling in six catches for 124 yards, including a touchdown on a well-executed play-action pass from Love. His ability to exploit Washington’s secondary was pivotal.

Micah Parsons’ Defensive Impact: Parsons, playing through a back injury, was a game-wrecker. He recorded a sack and three pressures, disrupting Daniels’ rhythm and forcing Washington to adjust their blocking schemes. His presence allowed linebackers Edgerrin Cooper and Quay Walker to make crucial stops.

Josh Jacobs’ Ground Game: Jacobs powered the offense with a 1-yard touchdown run, finishing with 85 yards on 18 carries. His physicality set up Green Bay’s play-action success.

Commanders’ Late Rally: Daniels showed poise, completing 19 of 30 passes for 233 yards and a touchdown. A 42-yard run by rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt and a two-point conversion to Luke McCaffrey kept Washington in the game until the final drive.

Injury Report

Packers: Wide receiver Jayden Reed exited in the first quarter with a shoulder injury and was ruled out for the game. Right tackle Zach Tom (oblique) and left guard Aaron Banks (ankle/groin) were questionable but played limited snaps. Micah Parsons (back) was active despite being listed as questionable, logging 32 defensive snaps.

Commanders: Running back Austin Ekeler suffered a non-contact Achilles injury in the fourth quarter and did not return. Defensive end Deatrich Wise Jr. was ruled out in the second half with a quadriceps injury. Punter Tress Way (back) played through a pre-game injury designation.

Analysis

The Packers’ offense was nearly unstoppable in the first half, with Love completing 73% of his passes and avoiding mistakes. However, Washington’s adjustments in the third and fourth quarters exposed vulnerabilities, particularly in Green Bay’s secondary, where nickel cornerback Javon Bullard struggled to contain Deebo Samuel. The Commanders’ aggressive fourth-down calls, including a failed attempt in their own territory, proved costly.

Defensively, Green Bay’s front, led by Parsons, maintained its Week 1 dominance, holding Washington to 230 total yards—the first time since 1995 the Packers have allowed under 250 yards in their first two games. Despite the Commanders’ late push, Green Bay’s disciplined pass rush and timely stops ensured the win.

Looking Ahead

The Packers head to Cleveland in Week 3 to face the Browns, aiming to maintain their defensive momentum. The Commanders, now 1-1, will look to regroup at home against the Giants. Both teams showed playoff-caliber potential, but Green Bay’s ability to close out the game underscores their early-season edge.