The NFL spotlight shifts to Lambeau Field this Friday as the Green Bay Packers take on the Washington Commanders in a head-turning early-season showdown. Both teams enter on the heels of Week 1 victories, but only one will walk into Week 3 with momentum and bragging rights under the bright lights of Thursday Night Football.
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NFL Week 2: Washington Commanders at Green Bay Packers
Lambeau Field, Friday 12th September, 10.15am (AEST)
Packers
In Week 1, Green Bay delivered a confident performance, dismantling the Lions 27–13. Jordan Love thrived under pressure, completing 16/22 passes for 188 yards, 2 touchdowns, and an absurd 128.6 passer rating against heavy blitz looks. The Packers’ offensive line and support cast, especially running back Josh Jacobs and backfield protector Chris Brooks, were stellar in neutralizing the blitz, giving Love time to execute their aggressive, downfield offense.
Off the field, there’s encouraging news on the receiver front: Green Bay extended Christian Watson’s contract by one year for $13.25 million. He’s currently on the PUP list recovering from an ACL tear and won’t be available for at least four weeks. Still, this move signals the organization’s faith in his long-term upside and explosive skill set. Until Watson returns, expect the Packers to lean heavily on Jacobs, Love’s arm, and that rugged offensive line to carry the load.
Commanders
Washington opened their season with a solid 21–6 victory over the Giants, marking their third consecutive win against New York, something they hadn’t done since the late 1990s. Rookie sensation Jacory “Bill” Croskey-Merritt made a splash, rushing for 82 yards and a touchdown on just 10 carries, establishing himself as one of the season’s potential breakout stars. His burst and reliability in the Pistol formation added much-needed dynamism to their ground game.
Despite the win, Washington didn’t exactly sparkle in execution. They racked up 12 penalties and dropped several passes, pointing to areas needing polish. Still, there’s a ton of reason for optimism. Quarterback Jayden Daniels was composed and effective, leadership is strong, and the defense smothered the Giants when it mattered, setting a sturdy foundation heading into Green Bay.
Prediction
Green Bay enters the matchup as a 3.5-point favorite, but this is far from a cakewalk. The Packers boast a well-oiled offensive machine that can punish teams with aggressive play-calling and pass protection. Meanwhile, Washington’s mix of stout defense and explosive rookie playmaking could keep this closer than many expect. Don’t be surprised if the game stays under the total of 48.5 points, as both teams favor efficiency and ball control.
I think Green Bay wins and covers at home here, but I don't expect this one to be a complete blowout. 27-20 Green Bay.
Packers -3.5
$1.90 (2.5 Units)
Commanders at Packers Prop Bet
Josh Jacobs was heavily involved in Green Bay’s opener, handling early-down work and grinding clock when they had the lead. His role as the clear RB1 is secure, and the Packers showed they want to lean on him to balance Jordan Love’s passing attack.
Washington looked solid in Week 1, but their front seven can be vulnerable to physical, north-south runners. Jacobs thrives in that exact style, and with Green Bay’s O-line controlling the trenches against Detroit, there’s confidence they can replicate it at home.
Josh Jacobs OVER 78.5 Rushing Yards
$1.88 (1.5 Units)
