Zielinski III: Packers’ defense will shine again

By DAN ZIELINSKI III
Green Bay has a chance to build some momentum Thursday night when the Packers host the Atlanta Falcons in their 2026 home opener at Lambeau Field.

The Packers enter Week 3 at 1-1 and are looking to win their second straight game while extending their home-opener winning streak to 14. They haven’t been particularly convincing through two weeks, though, with an offense that has struggled to find consistency and an offensive line that has been a major concern.

That could make for a difficult matchup against an Atlanta defense that has generated 48 pressures through two games. Green Bay will also be without offensive linemen Zach Bako-Bewele and Aaron Banks, while receiver Jayden Reed is out.

Still, the Packers have a significant advantage on the other side of the ball. Their defense under coordinator Jonathan Gannon has been one of the team’s biggest strengths. Green Bay has been effective against the run. That could be important with quarterback Michael Penix Jr. expected to make his season debut for Atlanta.

Penix could face some rust, while Atlanta’s offense has struggled to generate consistency. Jordan Love and the Packers offense should find just enough rhythm at home.
WHAT THE ODDSMAKERS ARE SAYING: Packers are favored by 4.5 points.
WHAT DZ IS SAYING: Packers 24, Falcons 17