The Good, Bad And Ugly From The Packers’ Preseason Win Over Denver

BusinessSportsMoneyThe Good, Bad And Ugly From The Packers’ Preseason Win Over DenverByRob Reischel,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Rob Reischel is a Wisconsin-based reporter who covers the NFL.Follow AuthorAug 22, 2026, 12:08am EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.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.Copyright 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reservedThe Green Bay Packers’ 2025 season went up in smoke during their Week 15 trip to Denver.Star edge rusher Micah Parsons suffered a season-ending ACL tear that included meniscus damage. Green Bay blew a nine-point lead and eventually dropped a 34-26 decision.And the Packers didn't win again, losing their final five games and finishing a remarkably unfulfilling season 9-8-1.Green Bay was back in Denver Friday for preseason game No. 2, and while few will remember this contest come January, things went much better.The Packers’ No. 1 offense had a touchdown drive on their only series together, rookie kicker Trey Smack was sensational and Green Bay posted a 33-13 win.Here’s the good, bad and ugly from that contest. THE GOODGOOD FORTUNE: The Packers opened the game with a 12-play, 63-yard touchdown drive. They needed a break, though, to do it.Green Bay wideout Christian Watson appeared to lose a fumble when Denver cornerback Pat Surtain stripped the ball loose. The Packers’ offense left the field, but came back after it was ruled that Watson was down before fumbling.MORE FOR YOUThat gave the Packers new life, and they took advantage.Jordan Love hit Matthew Golden for 20 yards on a fourth-and-1. MarShawn Lloyd had a first down run that he picked up by mere inches. Then Lloyd had an 11-yard touchdown reception when he came free ov...