Josh Jacobs has been a cornerstone of the Green Bay Packers’ offense this season, showcasing his durability and leadership amid a grueling schedule. With 49 touches over the last two games, including a standout performance against the San Francisco 49ers, Jacobs is proving to be the workhorse the Packers need as they prepare for their NFC North showdown against the Detroit Lions on Thursday.
Handling a Heavy Workload
Jacobs’ 248 touches this season rank fourth in the NFL, and his 987 rushing yards place him among the league’s top running backs. Despite the demands, Jacobs insists he feels “great” and emphasizes his role as a leader by maintaining a strong presence in practice.
“I think it’s important for the guys to see me work,” Jacobs said. “I think it’s important to get the reps. So, I practice.”
Balancing Rest and Reps
Coach Matt LaFleur and offensive coordinator Adam Stenavich are mindful of Jacobs’ workload, limiting his practice reps to keep him fresh for game day. However, Jacobs continues to set the tone for his team with his work ethic and attention to detail.
“He’s a guy that I really don’t worry about in terms of assignment,” LaFleur said. “Every rep he gets is meaningful. He’s just a coach’s dream.”
Old-School Football Mentality
Under LaFleur, Green Bay has embraced a physical, run-heavy style, with Jacobs spearheading the effort. His ability to consistently press gaps, execute footwork, and finish plays has been a driving force in the Packers’ offensive success.
“He’s playing really well, and I think the team’s rallying around him and his play style,” Stenavich said.
Eyes on the Lions
In the Packers’ earlier matchup with the Lions, Jacobs rushed for 95 yards on 13 carries, a performance he believes could have been even better if not for mistakes that put the team behind in the second half. Heading into Thursday’s rematch at Ford Field, Jacobs is focused on helping Green Bay execute a cleaner, more complete game.
“We did a lot of things that hurt ourselves,” Jacobs said. “We cut down on mistakes, it’s going to come down to the wire, but it’ll be a better game.”
Milestones and Mindset
Jacobs needs just 13 yards to hit 1,000 for the season, but he’s not concerned with personal stats. His priority remains securing wins for the Packers as they push toward the playoffs.
With his leadership and consistent production, Jacobs will be key in Green Bay’s attempt to avenge their earlier loss to Detroit and solidify their standing in the NFC playoff race. Kickoff is set for Thursday night at 8:15 p.m. ET.