The Green Bay Packers hosted the Miami Dolphins in a Thanksgiving evening clash, continuing the NFL’s holiday tradition. Starting the day at 8-3, the Packers needed a win to stay in contention with the 11-1 Detroit Lions, who had already secured a victory earlier.
The game began explosively, with Keisean Nixon returning the opening kickoff to Green Bay’s 46-yard line. From there, the Packers dominated, building a commanding 24-3 lead in the first half thanks to a stifling defensive effort and timely plays from Jayden Reed. Now 9-3, the Packers head to Detroit next week for a crucial matchup to keep their NFC North title hopes alive.
Stock Rising
Robert Rochell
Green Bay’s special teams delivered early when a muffed punt by Miami’s Malik Washington was recovered by Robert Rochell, setting the Packers up in excellent field position. Special teams, inconsistent throughout the season, delivered a strong start on Thanksgiving.
Lukas Van Ness
The second-year defensive end continues to make an impact, recording a sack for the second consecutive game and adding a tackle for loss. Van Ness also pressured Tua Tagovailoa during a key fourth-and-goal play, which ultimately led to a sack by Quay Walker, keeping the game out of reach for Miami.
Jayden Reed
Reed was instrumental in the Packers’ fast start. After a missed deep connection early, Reed caught a touchdown pass set up by the muffed punt. Later, he scored again on an RPO play, aided by key blocks from Christian Watson and Dontayvion Wicks, extending Green Bay’s lead to 21-3.
Tucker Kraft
In the absence of Romeo Doubs, tight end Tucker Kraft stepped up as a reliable target, leading the team with six catches for 78 yards. Known for his physicality, Kraft’s ability to break tackles and gain extra yards proved invaluable.
Areas of Concern
Offsides Penalties
Despite the strong overall performance, Green Bay struggled with discipline, committing multiple offsides penalties. Rashan Gary, TJ Slaton, Kingsley Enagbare, and Devonte Wyatt were all flagged, costing the team valuable opportunities. These mental lapses, while not fatal against Miami, could prove costly against tougher opponents down the stretch.
