As the Green Bay Packers gear up for a pivotal Week 15 clash against the Denver Broncos on the road this Sunday, all eyes are on running back Josh Jacobs. While quarterback Jordan Love has been lighting up the scoreboard in the 2025 NFL season, the Packers’ offense heavily relies on Jacobs’ ground game to keep defenses honest. The former Alabama Crimson Tide star has been a reliable workhorse for Green Bay, but facing one of the league’s stingiest run defenses presents a formidable challenge—or does it? Jacobs’ impressive track record against the Broncos suggests he could be the avenger from history, ready to exploit familiar weaknesses.
The Broncos have built a reputation as a defensive powerhouse this year, particularly against the run. Through 14 weeks, they rank second in the NFL, allowing just 89.0 rushing yards per game, and lead the league with a miserly 3.7 yards per carry surrendered. This stout front seven has frustrated opposing offenses all season, making Denver a tough out at home. However, history tells a different story when it comes to Jacobs, who has dominated the Broncos in past encounters.
In his career, Jacobs remains undefeated in eight meetings with Denver, amassing 769 rushing yards and nine touchdowns on 173 carries for a solid 4.5 yards per carry average. These numbers aren’t just stats—they’re a blueprint for success against a team that has struggled to contain him.
This will be Jacobs’ first time facing the Broncos since joining the Packers, adding an extra layer of intrigue. Previously with the Raiders, he consistently gashed Denver’s defense, often serving as the catalyst for victories. Whether it’s breaking tackles for big gains or punching in short-yardage touchdowns, Jacobs has proven he can thrive against this unit.
But Jacobs isn’t just living off past glory. In the 2025 season, he’s been a key contributor for Green Bay, rushing for 817 yards and 12 touchdowns on 206 carries across 12 games, averaging 4.0 yards per carry. His dual-threat ability is evident in the receiving game too, with 31 catches for 251 yards.
One potential hurdle is Jacobs’ knee injury, which sidelined him for Wednesday’s practice. The issue stems from Week 11’s win over the New York Giants, where he hurt his knee and subsequently missed the Week 12 matchup against the Minnesota Vikings. According to reports from Dominique Yates of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Jacobs was doing rehab work off to the side while the rest of the running backs drilled. It could simply be a maintenance day for the veteran, but the Packers have Emanuel Wilson ready to step in as the RB1 if needed. Lukas Van Ness (foot), Savion Williams (foot), and Kristian Welch (concussion) returned to practice, providing some positive news on the injury front.
Despite the injury concern, there’s optimism around Jacobs suiting up. His history against Denver—coupled with his current form—could spell big trouble for the Broncos. If Jacobs plays, expect him to channel that avenger spirit, using his physical running style to wear down a defense that’s uncharacteristically vulnerable to him. For Packers fans, this matchup isn’t just another game; it’s a chance for history to repeat itself in Green Bay’s favor. Will Jacobs deliver another masterful performance? Sunday can’t come soon enough.