Thanksgiving football brought a highly anticipated clash between the Green Bay
Packers and the Miami Dolphins at Lambeau Field. With subfreezing temperatures
and playoff aspirations on the line, the Packers edged out the Dolphins in a tightly
contested game, winning 31-24. Following the game, Packers running back Josh
Jacobs summarized the Dolphins’ struggles with a telling comment: “Them boys
looked cold out there.”
This remark highlights how the cold weather at Lambeau Field impacted the
Dolphins’ performance, provides a key storyline for this exciting matchup. Below,
we delve into the game’s highlights, player stats, and what this means for both
teams as the NFL playoff race heats up.
Game Recap: Packers vs. Dolphins
Game Overview
Final Score: Green Bay Packers 31, Miami Dolphins 24
Venue: Lambeau Field, Green Bay, WI
Weather Conditions: 28°F at kickoff, with a biting wind chill.
The Packers capitalized on their home-field advantage in cold weather, while the
Dolphins, accustomed to Miami’s tropical climate, struggled to adapt. Green Bay’s
quarterback Jordan Love orchestrated an efficient offense, complemented by Josh
Jacobs’ tough running game. Meanwhile, Miami’s explosive playmakers, such as
Tyreek Hill, faced challenges executing their usual game plan in adverse
conditions.
Key Moments from the Game
First Half: A Tight Battle
The game began as a high-octane duel. Both teams traded early scores, with Tua
Tagovailoa connecting with Tyreek Hill for a 45-yard touchdown, showcasing the
Dolphins’ speed and explosiveness. Green Bay responded with a methodical drive
ending in a touchdown pass from Jordan Love to Jayden Reed.
At halftime, the score was tied 17-17, setting the stage for an intense second half.
Second Half: Packers Seize Control
The pivotal moment came in the third quarter when Packers defensive lineman
Kenny Clark sacked Tagovailoa, forcing a fumble that Green Bay recovered. This
turnover shifted momentum in favor of the Packers. Josh Jacobs broke free for a
25-yard run shortly after, setting up another touchdown pass from Love, this time
to Christian Watson.
The Dolphins attempted a late-game rally, with Tua driving the offense downfield.
However, the Packers’ defense held firm, sealing the victory with a critical
interception by cornerback Rasul Douglas in the game’s closing moments.
Player Performances and Stats
Player Team Stats
Jordan Love Packers 280 passing yards, 3 TDs, 0 INTs
Josh Jacobs Packers 89 rushing yards, 1 reception
Jayden Reed Packers 5 receptions, 85 yards, 1 TD
Tua Tagovailoa Dolphins 310 passing yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT
Tyreek Hill Dolphins 112 receiving yards, 1 TD
Raheem Mostert Dolphins 50 rushing yards, 0 TDs
Weather: The X-Factor
Dolphins Struggle in the Cold
The frigid temperatures at Lambeau Field clearly affected Miami’s performance:
Ball Handling Issues: Multiple dropped passes and a fumbled snap hindered the
Dolphins’ offensive rhythm.
Fatigue: The cold seemed to wear down Miami’s defense, particularly in the fourth
quarter.
Packers Thrive at Home
Green Bay’s familiarity with cold weather proved advantageous:
Josh Jacobs’ Grit: The running back delivered key plays despite the tough
conditions, keeping drives alive and maintaining possession.
Defense Stands Tall: Kenny Clark and the Packers’ defensive line applied relentless
pressure, forcing mistakes from the Dolphins.
Commentary from Players and Analysts
Josh Jacobs’ post-game comment—“Them boys looked cold out there”—spoke
volumes about the mental and physical challenges the Dolphins faced in Green
Bay’s unforgiving weather. Analysts echoed this sentiment:
Jason Garrett (NBC):
“The Packers demonstrated why Lambeau Field is one of the toughest places to
play in November and December. The cold not only affects how you play but also
how you think.”
Mike Tirico (NBC Play-by-Play):
“Green Bay’s execution in the second half was flawless, while Miami seemed rattled
by the conditions.”
What’s Next for Both Teams?
Green Bay Packers
The victory moves the Packers to 7-5, putting them firmly in the NFC playoff race.
Key games on the horizon include:
Next Game: vs. Detroit Lions (Dec. 3) at Lambeau Field.
Players to Watch: Jordan Love, Jayden Reed, and Josh Jacobs.
Playoff Outlook: With a favorable schedule, the Packers control their destiny but
must continue their strong performances.
Miami Dolphins
The loss drops the Dolphins to 8-4 but leaves them atop the AFC East. Their focus
now shifts to rebounding from this defeat:
Next Game: vs. Baltimore Ravens (Dec. 4) at M&T Bank Stadium.
Key Focus: Improving ball security and adapting better to challenging conditions.
Playoff Implications: Miami remains a top contender in the AFC, but losses to cold-
weather teams could impact their seeding.
Where to Watch Future Packers and Dolphins Games
Fans can catch upcoming games on:
Television Networks: NBC, CBS, FOX, and ESPN.
Streaming Services: NFL+, Hulu Live, YouTube TV, and Amazon Prime Video.
Local Channels: Check regional listings for Packers and Dolphins games.
FAQs About Packers vs. Dolphins
What channel aired the Packers-Dolphins game?
NBC broadcasted the game as part of its Thanksgiving football coverage.
What were the weather conditions at Lambeau Field?
The temperature at kickoff was 28°F, with wind chills making it feel even colder.
Did Tyreek Hill perform well despite the cold?
Yes, Hill recorded 112 receiving yards and a touchdown, though his impact was
limited compared to his usual dominance.
The Packers’ victory over the Dolphins on Thanksgiving highlighted the stark contrast between a cold-weather team and one unaccustomed to frigid conditions. Green Bay’s poise and resilience, epitomized by Jordan Love and Josh Jacobs, were the difference-makers. As both teams move forward, this game will be a learning experience for Miami and a confidence booster for Green Bay.
Josh Jacobs’ remark, “Them boys looked cold out there,” serves as a fitting reminder of how critical weather conditions can be in the NFL, especially as the playoff race intensifies.