Commanders seek to break 37-year Lambeau Field drought against youthful Packers
Thursday Night Football is primed for an intriguing clash as the Washington Commanders head to Lambeau Field to face the Green Bay Packers. With both teams entering the game at 1-0, the stakes are already high, but the Commanders carry an additional burden: they haven’t secured a victory in Green Bay since 1988. This grueling 37-year stretch of futility looms large, and rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels has the opportunity to rewrite history.
A Historical Perspective
The Commanders and Packers have crossed paths numerous times since Washington last celebrated a win in Wisconsin, including memorable playoff encounters in the 1970s and 2010s. However, victories have consistently eluded the Commanders when playing on the road. Their last triumph in this storied rivalry came in 2022 at FedExField, but the memories of battles fought in Lambeau remain etched in disappointment.
Contrasting Teams
This matchup is characterized by a striking contrast in team composition. The Commanders boast the oldest roster in the league, while the Packers feature one of the youngest. This experience-versus-youth dynamic is set to take center stage under the bright lights of primetime football.
Daniels made a solid impression in his NFL debut, completing 233 yards through the air and tossing a touchdown while also adding 68 rushing yards in a victory over the Giants. Complementing him was rookie running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt, who contributed 82 yards and a score. Wide receiver Deebo Samuel also made his presence felt, racking up 77 receiving yards along with a rushing touchdown.
In contrast, Green Bay’s opener against the Detroit Lions revolved around efficiency and a solid defensive showing. Quarterback Jordan Love completed 16 of 22 passes for 188 yards and two touchdowns, aided by a defense that stifled the Lions’ offensive rhythm throughout the game.
Lambeau’s Legacy
Historically, the Packers lead the all-time series against the Commanders with a record of 22–17–1. However, the most significant aspect is the venue itself. Washington has not left Lambeau Field with a win in many years, making this Thursday’s game a unique opportunity for a fresh start.
Kickoff is slated for 8:15 p.m. ET, available for viewing on Amazon Prime Video. As the Commanders aim to finally break their Lambeau curse, fans can expect an intense battle filled with compelling narratives and high stakes.