DENVER — The Green Bay Packers faced a challenging game on Sunday, resting 31 players, including all of their regular starters, and ultimately losing to the Denver Broncos 27-2.
Jared Stidham’s 9-yard touchdown run just before halftime extended the Broncos’ lead to 17-0 after Keidron Smith intercepted a deep pass from Sean Clifford, who stepped in with Jordan Love watching from the sidelines.
Zach Wilson took over for Denver in the second half, while the Packers managed to score their only points late in the third quarter when Zach Morton sacked Wilson in the end zone for a safety.
This game marked the first kick-off after a safety under the new rules, allowing placekicks from the 20-yard line. Will Lutz took advantage of the change, kicking off from his 20 to the Green Bay 2-yard line, where Dimitri Stanley returned the ball to the 29.
The new kickoff rules could have unintended implications, potentially impacting teams that score safeties by reducing the favorable field position typically gained in previous seasons.
Wilson connected with Tyler Badie on a 7-yard touchdown pass late in the fourth quarter, securing the Broncos’ 27-2 victory.
Additionally, rookie linebacker Jonah Ellis from Utah had an impressive game for Denver, forcing another interception and making a crucial strip-sack leading to a field goal.
Despite the victory, Denver was penalized 13 times for a total of 120 yards, compared to just four penalties for the Packers, amounting to 40 yards.
Injury updates included Packers linebacker Ralen Goforth, who suffered a concussion during Stidham’s touchdown, and Broncos inside linebacker Jonas Griffith, who injured his right shoulder but returned to play. Rookie wide receiver DeVaughn Vele missed the game due to a leg injury.