Packers Dominate Broncos in Preseason Opener with Strong Performance Across Board

Green Bay Packers running back Marshawn Lloyd (32) celebrates after a touchdown against the Denver Broncos during the first half of an NFL preseason football game Friday, Aug. 21, 2026, in Denver.

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The Green Bay Packers showed strong form in their preseason rematch against the Denver Broncos on Friday night, securing a commanding 33-13 victory in Denver. The win provided a much-needed boost compared to their disappointing 2025 campaign where they collapsed late in the season.

Green Bay’s top offense delivered on their opening series with a well-executed 63-yard touchdown drive spanning 12 plays. Wideout Christian Watson appeared to fumble after being tackled by Pat Surtain, but review confirmed Watson was down before the turnover, giving Green Bay a crucial reprieve. Jordan Love capitalized, connecting with MarShawn Lloyd on a 20-yard fourth-down conversion and later splitting a route for an 11-yard touchdown reception. Lloyd outpaced linebacker Dondrea Tillman after reading the defense and finding space in the middle of the field.

The Packers will likely rely on their strong showing as they prepare for Week 1 against Minnesota, though questions remain about their ability to generate consistent defensive pressure following Micah Parsons’ season-ending injury.

Rookie Kicker Excellence: Trey Smack continued his impressive preseason form by converting all four field goal attempts, including kicks from 59, 51, 43 and 38 yards. His perfect 7-of-7 preseason field goal performance, with three kicks beyond 50 yards, positions him as the likely Week 1 kicker.

Emergence of Speed: MarShawn Lloyd’s emergence offers Green Bay a potential dynamic element in the backfield. The 2024 third-round pick has shown resilience throughout limited action and delivered a explosive touchdown reception against the Broncos. His ability to separate quickly from defenders showcases the speed missing from Green Bay’s running game since Aaron Jones departed.

Competition Continues: Rookie cornerback Brandon Cisse started on the outside alongside Keisean Nixon, who previously started alongside Carrington Valentine last season. Cisse’s early departure suggested strong performance warranting increased confidence heading into regular-season preparations.

Special Teams Impact: Will Sheppard’s acrobatic 2-yard touchdown catch in the corner of the end zone demonstrated his clutch capabilities. His six catches for 47 yards highlighted his ability to make plays in critical situations.

Multiple Contributors: Safety Mark Perry’s interception set up a 43-yard field goal. Running back Pierre Strong’s 68-yard kickoff return showcased speed and vision. Wideout Isaiah Neyor’s toe-tap reception showcased his ability to secure difficult catches. Kyle McCord added to the highlight reel with a 27-yard strike to Neyor.

Multiple Starts: Green Bay cycled through various defensive back combinations, with Nixon and Benjamin St-Juste playing together before Valentine returned from injury. The rotation continued to provide competition and flexibility heading into regular-season action.

Defensive Struggles: Despite practice field success, Green Bay’s defense struggled to create pressure against Denver. The Broncos scored on their opening drive, with RJ Harvey catching a 21-yard touchdown pass from Bo Nix after McKinney was beaten for 35 yards on a previous play. The lack of pass rush highlighted concerns about replacing Parsons’ production.

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