Parsons stuns in debut with Packers

GREEN BAY – With a 27-13 win over the Detroit Lions, the Green Bay Packers have extended their home opener win streak to 13, the longest in franchise history. 

Though Jordan Love and the offense put 27 points on the board, Defensive Coordinator Jeff Haffley’s defense — with the recent edition of Micah Parsons — put on a show with several players securing new accolades. 

In seeing the field for his first time donning the notorious green and gold, Parsons secured his first sack of the season early in the fourth quarter, playing 29 snaps throughout the game. 

“Physically, that was draining. That was my first game here with constant snaps, so obviously I’ve got to recover and do everything I need to do to get ready for Thursday. Emotionally I couldn’t be more happy to get my first win at Lambeau, have amazing fans, and everything overall. It was a one of one experience for me,” said Parsons. 

Defensive end Rashan Gary also had a productive performance for the Packers. 

Gary recorded his 40th career sack, making him only the eighth player to hit that mark. 

“I looked (Taylor) Decker in the eye and I told Lukas (Van Ness), ‘I want this rep.’ I ended up making the sack and he said ‘Yeah, if you’re gonna make me switch sides you better make the play,’” said Gary about his sack. 

Van Ness himself came up with several big impact plays, including three tackles and 0.5 sacks, continuing to make the defensive line one of the most intimidating in the NFC-North this season. 

Safety Evan Williams notched three tackles and made a crucial interception to keep the Lions out of the red zone. 

“I feel like we won the down before it was even snapped with our disguise,” said Williams. “I’m looking at Goff and he’s looking at me, so I know the ball is coming somewhere near me since I’m his first general read.”

According to Williams, instinct took over and helped him to make the play for his team. “My feet made the play before I could really think about what was going on at that point.”

While facing the Lions, the Packers took 4 penalties — a stark change from the preseason struggles they faced. 

While the core of the Packers offense remains similar to last year, the addition of Parsons on the defensive line seems to have added the necessary spark to bring the Packers performance to the top of the NFC-North this season. 

The Packers will have a quick turnaround to face the Washington Commanders at home on Thursday, Sept. 11.