The Washington Commanders travel to Lambeau Field on Thursday night looking to make a statement against a Green Bay Packers squad already viewed as one of the NFC’s strongest contenders. Both teams opened the season in impressive fashion, with the Packers handling Detroit 27-13 on the road while Washington’s defense dominated the New York Giants in a 21-6 victory. This primetime clash carries early implications in the NFC playoff picture.

Odds and Trends

Green Bay enters as a consensus three-point favorite. At BetRivers the Packers were juiced at -118 and had drawn 71 percent of the spread money by Thursday afternoon. DraftKings had already shifted the line to 3.5, with Green Bay at -102 compared to Washington at -118. On the moneyline, the Packers stood at -186 at BetRivers, attracting 75 percent of the handle and 71 percent of the total bets. The total for the game sits at 48 points, with the Over backed heavily by the public at 68 percent of wagers and 85 percent of the money. Green Bay has been a reliable favorite recently, covering in five of its past six games in that role. The Packers also own a six-game home winning streak against Washington.

Key Matchups and Player Notes

The Packers’ offense started fast in Week 1 as Jordan Love delivered two first-half touchdown passes, finishing 16 of 22 for 188 yards while connecting with 10 different receivers. Josh Jacobs powered the ground game with 66 of the team’s 78 rushing yards. Jacobs also carries one of the most notable player streaks into Thursday night, having scored at least one touchdown in 10 consecutive games including last year’s postseason.

Washington’s offense was equally sharp. Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels impressed with 233 passing yards, 68 rushing yards and no turnovers. Wideout Deebo Samuel looked strong in his Commanders debut, hauling in seven passes for 77 yards and adding a rushing touchdown. Rookie running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt broke through with 82 yards on 10 carries, helping Washington total 220 rushing yards at nearly seven yards per attempt. Terry McLaurin, who has scored in nine of Washington’s last 10 road games, remains a top threat to strike in this matchup.

On defense, Green Bay looked dominant against Detroit, holding the Lions without a touchdown until the final minute. The Packers allowed only 246 total yards, just 46 on the ground, while recording nine tackles for loss and four sacks. Micah Parsons registered his first sack in his Packers debut and, despite being listed as questionable with a back issue, is expected to play. Washington’s defense also impressed, holding the Giants to 231 yards and limiting them to just 4 of 16 on third-down conversions.

Injury Report

Green Bay faces multiple injury concerns. Guard Aaron Banks and right tackle Zach Tom both missed practice with lower-body injuries and remain questionable. Defensive end Brenton Cox Jr. and cornerback Bo Melton have been ruled out, while safety Zayne Anderson and cornerback Nate Hobbs are questionable. Linebacker Quay Walker returned to full practice Wednesday after earlier limitations.

Washington’s list is shorter. Jayden Daniels’ wrist was noted early in the week but he was cleared for full participation. Punter Tress Way is questionable with a back injury, prompting the signing of veteran Mitch Wishnowsky to the practice squad as insurance. Defensive end Deatrich Wise Jr. is questionable with a knee issue, while running back Austin Ekeler was limited in practice with a shoulder concern but carries no game designation.

Coaches’ Perspectives

Commanders head coach Dan Quinn praised the Packers’ speed on defense, pointing to the front office’s repeated investments at linebacker, safety and the addition of Parsons to a group that already featured Rashan Gary. Packers head coach Matt LaFleur returned the respect, noting that Washington has one of the top offenses in football and highlighting Daniels’ versatility as a quarterback capable of doing everything.

Prediction

Thursday night brings together two of the most complete teams in the conference, each boasting balance on both sides of the ball. Washington’s rushing attack will test Green Bay’s discipline up front, while the Packers’ quick-hitting passing game will attempt to offset the Commanders’ pass rush. Lambeau Field remains a difficult venue, especially on a short week, and Green Bay’s defense with Parsons in the lineup may be enough to contain Daniels’ explosiveness.

Final Score Prediction: Packers 24, Commanders 23