Prior to that, Jayden Daniels and the Washington offense were helpless against Parsons and the Green Bay defense over the first three quarters, mustering just three points, seven first downs and 112 yards. In the definition of a game that wasn’t as close as the final score, Washington was able to rally to a degree, but the message had been delivered regarding the supremacy of Jeff Hafley’s defense.
“Relentless. Just physical, aggressive, attacking,” Packers head coach Matt LaFleur said of a unit that produced 21 pressures and four sacks. “The play style is exactly what we want from these guys, and it always starts with the energy and effort. That’s gonna get you through and can overcome for some of the mistakes. I think our front is extremely disruptive getting after the quarterback. It didn’t seem like they ran the ball very effectively at all either.
“I think Haf’s done a hell of a job. I think our players are doing a great job, feeding off one another. It’s definitely exciting to watch our defense go out there and perform because I think they allow us to get up on somebody.”
Parsons very much appears to be the piece the Packers were missing, though adding one of the greats of the game is usually going to shift things around for the better. However, it’s apparent the Packers defense has more confidence than it did prior to No. 1 joining it.
In Parsons’ mind, it should only improve as he’s loudly calling for more snaps. The four-time Pro Bowler has been given a questionable designation due to a back issue two weeks running, had to ramp up after a hold-in with the Cowboys and needed to get acclimated to a new scheme. Thus, he’s been held back. He’s ready to be let loose.
“I just hope I’m full-go,” Parsons said. “Honestly, it’s pissing me off. I tell them it does more worse than good. I get tight and stuff. Hopefully they just let me off, man. Can’t hold a dog back forever.”
Out of the gates, the Packers have emerged as one of the big dogs in the NFL hierarchy.
And at this early juncture, the Micah Parsons project has been a major success.
As the former All-Pro is quick to point out, though, nothing’s really been achieved yet. The chase for greatness is just getting underway in Green Bay.
“Best defense in the NFL, [that title] is earned,” Parsons answered when asked if the Packers had claimed that designation. “It’s early to say. The best defenses do it consistently. Consistency equals greatness. We had a great start, so I’m just happy about that. We can be a great defense. It’s just up to us to continue to push and strive for that.”