At Lambeau Field, the Green Bay Packers (8-3) and Miami Dolphins (5-6) will play in a prime-time Thanksgiving matchup on November 28, 2024.
This highly anticipated game features two teams navigating very different paths this season.
The Packers have emerged as one of the NFC’s most complete teams, led by the rapid development of quarterback Jordan Love. Love has thrived as a starter since taking over for four-time MVP Aaron Rodgers, effectively utilizing playmakers like running back Josh Jacobs and wide receiver Jayden Reed to power Green Bay’s offense.
The Packers’ defense has been equally impressive, with standout performances from safety Xavier McKinney, who is tied for the league lead with seven interceptions, and edge rusher Rashan Gary, who continues to wreak havoc in opposing backfields. Green Bay also benefits significantly from its hallmark cold-weather advantage as the calendar inches deeper into winter.
The Miami Dolphins, on the other hand, are fighting to stay alive in the AFC playoff race but come into this game with momentum, riding a three-game winning streak. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has been the centerpiece of Miami’s offensive resurgence, showing remarkable resilience after overcoming his third diagnosed concussion in two years, suffered during Week 2 against Buffalo.
After a cautious recovery process and time on injured reserve, Tua returned in Week 8 and rebuilt his connection with wide receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle. Hill remains a game-changer, leading the league in receiving yards, while Waddle’s speed adds another layer of explosiveness to the Dolphins’ attack. Running backs De’Von Achane and Raheem Mostert have also provided balance, helping Miami create one of the league’s most dynamic offenses.
Defensively, the Dolphins are improving as they lean on key contributors like Bradley Chubb and cornerback Xavien Howard. Chubb has been disruptive off the edge, while Howard has locked down top opposing receivers.
The unit’s ability to pressure Jordan Love and contain Green Bay’s playmakers will be critical. However, Miami’s most significant challenge might not be the Packers but the freezing conditions of Lambeau Field, as the team seeks to prove it can perform outside the warm-weather comfort of South Florida.
This game will feature several compelling matchups, including Love’s ability to dissect Miami’s defensive schemes and Tua’s challenge against Green Bay’s opportunistic secondary led by McKinney.
Historically, Lambeau Field has been a fortress for the Packers in November and December, making it a daunting venue for the Dolphins. Both teams have much to gain from this matchup, with Green Bay aiming to solidify their position atop the NFC and Miami seeking to stay in the thick of the AFC playoff race.
Kickoff is set for 8:20 PM on NBC.
