Green Bay Packers Suffer Devastating Blows with Micah Parsons’ Feared ACL Tear, Christian Watson Out – Broncos Rally for 34-26 Win, Extend 11-Game Streak
Denver, CO – December 14, 2025 – The Green Bay Packers’ Super Bowl dreams took a brutal hit in a nightmarish third quarter during their 34-26 loss to the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High. What started as a commanding lead for Green Bay unraveled into a cascade of injuries, including a potential season-ending torn ACL for star edge rusher Micah Parsons, sidelining multiple key players and handing the surging Broncos their 11th straight victory and a clinched playoff spot.
The Packers (now 9-4-1) jumped out to a 23-14 advantage midway through the third, fueled by running back Josh Jacobs‘ explosive plays, including a 40-yard touchdown scamper. But disaster unfolded rapidly: All-Pro cornerback Pat Surtain II‘s diving interception sparked the Broncos’ comeback, while Green Bay lost wide receiver Christian Watson to a chest injury on the play. Moments later, Parsons – the Packers’ blockbuster offseason acquisition from Dallas – crumpled in non-contact fashion while pressuring QB Bo Nix, clutching his left knee in agony.
Head coach Matt LaFleur confirmed postgame fears: “We’re worried about Micah’s knee – it looks like an ACL. This one’s tough.” Parsons, who entered with 12.5 sacks, was carted off and faces an MRI on December 15. The injury wave continued with tight end Josh Whyle (concussion) and guard Zach Tom (knee), leaving Green Bay’s depth chart in shambles.
Nightmare Third Quarter: Packers’ Injury Avalanche Dooms Early Lead
The third quarter became a horror show for the Packers:
- Micah Parsons (left knee): Non-contact twist feared as torn ACL; no return, potential season-ender.
- Christian Watson (chest): Injured on Surtain’s pick-six setup; ruled out, status for Bears game uncertain.
- Josh Whyle (concussion): Exited after a hit; in NFL protocol.
- Zach Tom (knee): Tweaked in second quarter but aggravated; limited mobility.
These blows crippled Green Bay’s defense and offense. QB Jordan Love was intercepted twice (by Surtain and Riley Moss), sacked three times, and managed just 1-of-4 red-zone conversions into touchdowns. Despite 259 passing yards and a score to Jacobs, Love couldn’t stem the tide as Denver flipped the script.
The Broncos, trailing by nine, pounced: Nix hit Troy Franklin for a 23-yard go-ahead TD immediately after Parsons’ exit, then added strikes to Courtland Sutton, Lil’Jordan Humphrey, and Michael Bandy for four total scores. Rookie RB R.J. Harvey iced it with a late rushing TD, as Denver’s defense forced turnovers and held Green Bay to field goals from ex-Bronco Brandon McManus.
Broncos’ Epic Comeback: Bo Nix Shines in Statement Win
Second-year sensation Bo Nix authored a career masterpiece, going 23-of-34 for 303 yards, 4 TDs, and a 134.7 passer rating with zero picks or sacks. Sutton exploded for 7 receptions, 113 yards, and a TD, while the defense’s two interceptions and three sacks sealed the deal.
This victory catapults Denver to 12-2, atop the AFC and eyeing the No. 1 seed. Coach Sean Payton lauded Nix: “He grew up tonight – that’s playoff football.” Tight end Adam Trautman added, “Bo was lights out; this team’s built for February.”
Packers’ Playoff Push in Peril: Can They Survive the Injury Bug?
Dropping to the NFC’s No. 7 seed, Green Bay now limps into a must-win against the Chicago Bears on December 20. Without Parsons’ pass rush and Watson’s speed, the Packers’ Super Bowl odds – once +800 favorites – have plummeted amid questions about resilience.
Key Stats:
- Bo Nix (DEN): 23/34, 303 yds, 4 TD, 0 INT
- Jordan Love (GB): 24/40, 259 yds, 1 TD, 2 INT
- Josh Jacobs (GB): 112 rush yds, 1 TD; 1 rec TD
- Final Score: Broncos 34, Packers 26
- Injuries: Parsons (knee/ACL?), Watson (chest), Whyle (concussion), Tom (knee)
As the NFL world reacts to Green Bay’s gut-wrenching collapse, Packers fans are left wondering: Is this the breaking point, or can they rally from disaster? Updates on Parsons’ MRI expected Monday.
