The Washington Commanders travel to Wisconsin on Thursday night to take on the Green Bay Packers. Both teams are 1-0, coming off of big wins against the Giants and Lions, but success has been scarce for Washington in Wisconsin. The franchise hasn’t won a road game against the Packers in 37 years, with its last Lambeau Field victory all the way back in 1986. Though it has been nearly 39 years since winning in Lambeau, Washington did win in Wisconsin at Milwaukee’s County Stadium in 1988.
Grant Paulsen of 106.7 The Fan noted that this is a meeting of opposites: Washington, the oldest team in the NFL, versus Green Bay, the youngest roster in the league. On a short week with minimal recovery time, the difference in roster age could play a role, whether in stamina, execution, or late-game discipline.
Both teams enter Thursday night fresh off Week 1 performances that gave fans plenty to analyze. Washington leaned on its defense and saw flashes from new contributors like Deebo Samuel and Jacory Croskey-Merritt, but still has questions about offensive consistency. Green Bay, meanwhile, showed the explosive potential of its young core, led by Jordan Love under center, but must prove it can sustain that energy on a quick turnaround. Newcomer Micah Parsons recorded a sack in his first game with the Packers.
The Commanders announced on Wednesday morning that they’ve signed former 49ers punter Mitch Wishnowsky to the practice squad and after an injury to Tress Way on Sunday. Tight end Lawrence Cager was released to make room for Wishnowsky, though Coach Dan Quinn shared that he was feeling good about Way’s health heading into Thursday night.
The Commanders were ranked 7th in the NFL.com Power Rankings, while the Packers were 4th. Green Bay is a 3.5 point favorite at home. Can Washington finally exorcise its Lambeau demons and snap a nearly four-decade skid? Or will the Packers continue their dominance at home against the Burgundy and Gold? Thursday night will provide the answers.
