The Green Bay Packers ended their five-game losing streak with a 33-13 victory over the Denver Broncos on August 21, 2026, at Empower Field at Mile High. The win came despite the Packers’ starting quarterback, Jordan Love, playing only the first drive of the game, as head coach Matt LaFleur prioritized rest for his starters ahead of the regular season. Rookie kicker Trey Smack was the story of the night, making four field goals, including a 59-yarder, and cementing his role as a key contributor for the team.
Rookie Kicker’s Dominance
Smack’s performance underscored his emergence as a reliable leg for the Packers. The sixth-round draft pick converted all four of his field goal attempts, including a 59-yard kick that matched his longest of the preseason. His accuracy extended to kickoffs, which consistently placed the ball inside the 10-yard line under the NFL’s new dynamic kickoff
rules.
The rookie’s ability to thrive in live action has eased concerns about the Packers’ special teams, which saw contributions from fourth-string running back Pierre Strong Jr., who returned a 68-yard kickoff, and receiver Skyy Moore, who added a 16-yard punt return.
Coach’s Perspective on Team Performance
LaFleur emphasized the significance of the win, noting that the Broncos are one of the best teams in the National Football League.
The Packers’ starting offense, led by Love, scored a touchdown on their opening drive, with Love connecting with running back MarShawn Lloyd on an option route. However, Love sat the rest of the game, as the Packers focused on developing younger players.
The defense, which had struggled in Week 1 against the Pittsburgh Steelers, showed improvement. The second-team defense held the Broncos to 32 yards over three drives, while the starting defense allowed a touchdown but limited the Broncos’ second-team offense to a field goal.
Player Developments and Injuries
Hadden, who started in the slot, was noted for his improved performance compared to Oladapo, who has transitioned to a safety role. However, Warren Brinson, who was not listed as injured pre-game, did not play a single snap on defense, raising questions about his status.
Injury updates highlighted the Packers’ cautious approach to player health. Cisse, who was hurt on special teams, was seen riding a stationary bike on the sideline, though the extent of his injury remained unclear. The team’s depth was evident as backups and reserves played significant roles, with fourth-string running back Pierre Strong Jr. making an impact on special teams.
What It Means for the Packers
For Love, the game provided a low-risk opportunity to start, but his limited action suggests the Packers are prioritizing his development over short-term results. LaFleur’s focus on rest ahead of the regular season aligns with the team’s strategy to avoid overworking starters in the preseason.
For now, the focus remains on Smack’s consistency and the team’s ability to maintain momentum as they prepare for the 2026 season.
