The Atlanta Falcons will take on the Green Bay Packers in a highly anticipated matchup for Thursday Night Football, set for September 24, 2026, at 8:15 p.m. ET at Lambeau Field.
Why it matters: This game marks a key moment for both teams as the Falcons aim to secure their first win of the season, and the Packers look to build momentum after a recent victory.
- The Falcons enter the game with a 0-2 record, having struggled in their opening weeks.
- The Packers are 1-1, coming off a thrilling overtime win against the New York Jets.
- This matchup is also notable as it features Michael Penix Jr. making his season debut for Atlanta after recovering from a torn ACL.
Driving the news: The Falcons have officially named Michael Penix Jr. as their starting quarterback for this week's game.
- Penix replaces Cooper Rush, who had a difficult start to the season, leading to his benching.
- Before his injury last season, Penix threw for nine touchdowns and three interceptions.
- His return is seen as a potential turning point for the Falcons' struggling offense.
State of play: Both teams have key players to watch as they prepare for Thursday's contest.
- Atlanta's offense has struggled, with tight ends Kyle Pitts and Austin Hooper tied for 34th in targets among NFL tight ends.
- Pitts has only one catch for 15 yards this season, raising concerns about his usage in the offense.
- The Packers' defense, known for its pressure, has allowed the fourth-highest quarterback pressure percentage in the league.
The big picture: This game could be a defining moment early in the season for both franchises.
- A loss for the Falcons would drop them to 0-3, putting immense pressure on the coaching staff and players.
- The Packers, favored by 4.5 points, are looking to assert their dominance at home.
- With the total points line dropping from 46.5 to 43, expectations are low for a high-scoring affair.
What they're saying: Coaches and players have shared their thoughts ahead of the game.
- “We have to get it going,” said offensive coordinator Tommy Rees, emphasizing the need for improved performance from Pitts.
- Head coach Kevin Stefanski noted, “It’s a long season. It would be selfish to get upset,” referring to Pitts’ current situation.
- Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich expressed confidence in backup corner C.J. Henderson stepping up in A.J. Terrell's absence.
By the numbers: Key statistics highlight the challenges both teams face.
- The Falcons have the 23rd-ranked rushing success rate in the league at 33.3 percent.
- Green Bay ranks 10th in passing EPA allowed against tight ends, complicating the Falcons' plans for Pitts.
- Atlanta has lost more points to missed kicks than any other team over the past five seasons.
Between the lines: The matchup presents intriguing tactical battles.
- With Penix back, the Falcons hope to revitalize their offense, but they face a tough Packers defense that has shown variability in its game plans.
- Both teams are dealing with injuries and inconsistencies, making this game unpredictable.
- Expect heavy pressure on Penix as he adjusts to game speed after his injury layoff.
Yes, but: There are reasons for skepticism about both teams' prospects.
- The Falcons have struggled offensively, and their defense needs to perform much more consistently to keep them competitive.
- The Packers, though favored, must address their offensive inefficiencies, having managed only 145 passing yards in their last game.
- Questions remain about how well Penix can perform under pressure after a lengthy recovery.
What's next: Following this game, both teams will look to build on their performances.
- The Falcons will seek to leverage Penix's return to turn their season around against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers next week.
- The Packers will aim to maintain their momentum as they prepare for a road game against the Indianapolis Colts.
- This matchup will be broadcast nationally on Prime Video, with local options available in Atlanta and Green Bay.
Kickoff is scheduled for 8:15 p.m. ET, and fans can expect an exciting night of football as both teams vie for an important early-season victory.