The Packers head into Sunday’s rematch with the Vikings facing Kirk Cousins, newly reacquired by Minnesota, and a defense that can pressure Jordan Love but may be vulnerable if Green Bay runs the ball and controls the tempo. Green Bay’s keys: clean up the execution that hurt it in the season opener, use Tucker Kraft as a quick-game outlet, and capitalize on a Vikings defense coming off a heavy workload.

By the Numbers
  • Cousins is 2-2-1 at Lambeau Field: in the wins and tie, he completed 34 of 45 passes for 434 yards, 3 touchdowns and no interceptions.
  • In his two Lambeau losses, Cousins completed 32 of 63 passes for 435 yards, 2 touchdowns and 5 interceptions.
  • Cousins threw 3 interceptions in a 24-7 loss to Jonathan Gannon’s Philadelphia defense in 2022.
  • Jordan Love leads the NFL in explosive completions and is getting the ball out faster than any other quarterback, according to the team’s analysis.
Yes, But

Cousins has limited time to get comfortable in Minnesota’s offense, but his familiarity with the Vikings and his history of strong performances at Lambeau make him a credible threat. Minnesota’s defense remains capable of keeping the team competitive, though Green Bay believes it can wear that unit down and attack its aggressive pressure schemes.

State of Play
  • The Packers are counting on a stronger performance than in the first meeting, with fewer penalties, better blocking and fewer explosive plays allowed.
  • Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores is expected to pressure Love and limit deep passes to Christian Watson and Matthew Golden.
  • Green Bay can counter with the run game and quick passes to Kraft; Chris Brooks is nearing a return, while Josh Jacobs may avoid injured reserve.
  • Brandon Cisse gets another chance to face Justin Jefferson after struggling in the opener, now with more experience and a strong safety group behind him.
What's Next

Sunday’s game will test whether Green Bay can make Minnesota pay for an aggressive defensive approach and whether Cousins can quickly restore rhythm to the Vikings’ offense. A win would also strengthen the Packers’ playoff position and their standing in the division.

Bottom Line

The Packers’ path is straightforward: run the ball, protect Love, and turn Minnesota’s pressure into opportunities underneath. If Green Bay executes more cleanly than it did in the opener, its depth and the Vikings’ defensive workload could tilt the rematch its way.