Green Bay Packers running back Josh Jacobs makes franchise history in 27-13 win over Lions
The Green Bay Packers had the best start to an NFL regular season than they have had in years, dominating the Detroit Lions in every facet of the game on their way to a 27-13 victory on Sunday afternoon. The defense especially raised many eyebrows with a prolific pass rush and an effective run defense that help Detroit’s two-headed running back monster of Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery to just 44 yards rushing between them.
And, of course, Green Bay’s newest player, defensive end Micah Parsons, was the darling of the crowd, especially when he recorded his first sack with the Packers late in the game.
But as dominant as the defense was, the offense, led by quarterback Jordan Love, was just as efficient.
The Green Bay Packers offense had their way with the Detroit Lions
Last season, the Packers went 0-2 against the Lions, losing the first game at home 24-14 and the second in Detroit 34-31. They knew that if the Super Bowl is to be a realistic goal for them as a team, they must do better against their own division, and they got off to a good start in doing so on Sunday.
Love and the offense clicked early and often in the first quarter, with the Packers quarterback completing six of his first eight passes to six different receivers. Their opening drive culminated in a Tucker Kraft touchdown reception not long after the tight end had his helmet ripped off of his head by Detroit defensive back Brian Branch (who, for some reason, was not ejected).
By the time the game ended, Love was 16/22 for 188 yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions (128.6 passer rating). Romeo Doubs led the Packers with 68 receiving yards (two receptions), the longest one being a 48-yard catch that set up a Jayden Reed touchdown catch on the very next play.
Indeed, it appeared as if Green Bay could move the ball at will through the air whenever they chose to, especially in the first half. It was not until the second half, though, when it was complimented by production from the run game.
Green Bay Packers running back Josh Jacobs set a franchise record
Packers running back Josh Jacobs did not get very many carries in the first half, and when he did he did not gain many yards. But that is the way the Packers have built the run game around him, allowing to slowly wear down defenses who grow tired of the constant beatings involved in tackling him, and eventually give up bigger plays to him later.
By the end of the game, Jacobs had 19 carries for 66 yards and a touchdown, and it was the touchdown that he scored that made franchise history:
While it was obviously Jacobs’ first touchdown run of the season, it was his ninth consecutive regular season game with a touchdown dating back to last year. This broke the franchise record of eight consecutive games with a touchdown that was previously held by Paul Hornung.
Last season, his first with Green Bay, Jacobs made the Pro Bowl with 301 carries for 1,329 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns on the ground.
Cam Newton Picks Baker Mayfield Over Jalen Hurts in Must-Win Game Debate
In a bold statement that’s shaking up the NFL quarterback conversation, former MVP Cam Newton has thrown his support behind Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield over Philadelphia Eagles' Jalen Hurts when it comes to a must-win scenario. The remarks were made during a recent appearance on ESPN’s
While Hurts led the Eagles to a Super Bowl appearance last season and is widely regarded as one of the top quarterbacks in the league, Newton’s reasoning centers around Mayfield’s ability to perform in critical, high-pressure moments. Mayfield, who joined the Buccaneers this offseason, has already impressed with his early-season poise and efficiency.
“I’m going with Baker Mayfield if it’s a do-or-die situation,” Newton said. “I respect Jalen Hurts a lot, but when the game’s on the line, Mayfield has shown that he’s able to step up and make plays. He’s not just going through the motions, he’s playing with urgency, and we’ve seen him deliver when it counts.”
Mayfield has demonstrated his clutch ability in the first few weeks of the season, including leading the Buccaneers to multiple game-winning drives, an area where Hurts, while dominant, has yet to show the same level of consistency. With three game-winning drives already this season, Mayfield has proven that he can handle pressure, something Newton places a great deal of value on.
“Baker’s ability to deliver in the clutch is what makes him stand out,” Newton continued. “He’s already had multiple opportunities to seal games, and he’s done it. That’s something Jalen hasn’t had to do as often this season.”
On the other hand, Hurts has been nearly flawless in his play with the Eagles, leading them to a 3-0 record to start the season and racking up impressive stats, including over 1,100 passing yards and nine touchdowns. The Eagles are a more well-rounded team, with a defense that is playing at a high level and an offense that is explosive. Yet Newton argues that it’s not just about putting up great numbers — it’s about showing up when the game is on the line.
“Look, Hurts has been great,” Newton said. “But if I need someone to take the reins in a critical situation, I’m choosing Mayfield right now. He’s showing the ability to stay calm under pressure and deliver when it counts.”
Despite Newton’s confidence in Mayfield, Hurts’ Eagles are still viewed by many as the favorites in the NFC East and a team capable of making another deep playoff run. Hurts, with his leadership and consistent performances, has become one of the most reliable quarterbacks in the league. But Mayfield’s ability to lead the Buccaneers to wins in high-pressure situations has given him newfound respect, and Newton’s endorsement adds fuel to the fire of an already growing narrative around the 28-year-old quarterback.
The debate between Mayfield and Hurts is not just about which quarterback is better overall — it’s about who can perform in the most critical moments. As the season progresses, both quarterbacks will be tested in various high-stakes situations, and this discussion may only intensify as we move toward the playoffs.
As for Mayfield, this bold statement from Newton could serve as a springboard for his career in Tampa Bay. With the Buccaneers looking to make a playoff push, Mayfield’s ability to perform in clutch moments could define his legacy in Tampa Bay, just as it did for him in Cleveland. On the other hand, Hurts, with his proven track record, will have plenty of opportunities to prove why he’s considered one of the NFL’s elite quarterbacks.
In the end, the matchup between these two quarterbacks may just be the most intriguing storyline of the season, with Mayfield and Hurts each looking to prove they are the ones to lead their team to glory. The football world is watching, and Newton’s pick has only added more fuel to this fascinating debate.
