Atlanta Falcons at Green Bay Packers
Thursday, September 24, 2026 — 8:15 p.m. ET
Lambeau Field, Green Bay
Prime Video
The NFL’s Week 3 schedule opens with a matchup of teams heading in very different directions early in the season. Atlanta enters 0–2, while Green Bay is 1–1 after its overtime victory over the New York Jets.
The Big Story: Michael Penix Jr. Returns
The biggest storyline is Atlanta’s decision to return Michael Penix Jr. to the starting quarterback position. Penix is making his first NFL start since suffering a season-ending ACL injury in November 2025.
Atlanta’s offense has struggled badly through two games, including just 16 total points and no trips inside the opponent’s red zone.
Penix’s return gives the Falcons a different dynamic, particularly with Bijan Robinson and Drake London providing two major offensive weapons.
Green Bay’s Challenge
The Packers come home after a 20–17 overtime victory over the Jets. Jordan Love has thrown four touchdowns through two games, but Green Bay’s rushing attack has produced only 129 yards and no rushing touchdowns.
Green Bay will also be without Josh Jacobs, who is suspended, while Micah Parsons is out with a knee injury. Several other Packers remain on the injury report.
Three Keys to the Game
1. Penix’s mobility and decision-making
After nearly a year away from NFL game action, his ability to operate efficiently will be closely watched.
2. Atlanta’s turnover problem
The Falcons committed five turnovers in their Week 2 loss to Carolina. They cannot afford another giveaway-heavy performance.
3. Green Bay’s running game
Without Jacobs, the Packers need production from their remaining backs to prevent Atlanta from consistently attacking Love through the air.
Players to Watch
Falcons: Michael Penix Jr., Bijan Robinson, Drake London, A.J. Terrell
Packers: Jordan Love, Christian Watson, Jayden Reed, Edgerrin Cooper
Injury Watch
Green Bay has several players listed as questionable, including Aaron Banks, Edgerrin Cooper and Jayden Reed. Atlanta lists Brian Robinson, Jawaan Taylor and A.J. Terrell among its questionable players.
Betting Outlook
Current reported lines have Green Bay around -6 to -7.5, with the total in the 43.5–44.5 range. Those numbers can move before kickoff.
What to Expect
The central question is whether Penix can immediately stabilize an Atlanta offense that has struggled to sustain drives, while Green Bay tries to take advantage of home-field conditions and its passing game.
Thursday Night Football has all the ingredients for an intriguing early-season test: a quarterback making his comeback, a Packers home opener, and two teams with plenty to prove.
