5 Takeaways from Packers’ Victory Over Steelers | NFL Week 8 Recap 2025
The Green Bay Packers walked into Acrisure Stadium on Sunday night as underdogs and walked out with a statement win, defeating the Pittsburgh Steelers 35-25 in Week 8. What began as a frustrating first half turned into one of the most complete performances of the Jordan Love era. Here are five major takeaways from a game that may reshape the NFC picture.
1️⃣ Second-Half Spark Ignites the Comeback
Down 16-7 at halftime, Green Bay looked sluggish, struggling to finish drives. Whatever head coach Matt LaFleur said in the locker room clearly worked. The Packers erupted for 28 points in the final two quarters, executing sharper routes and quicker reads. The offensive line tightened protection, allowing Love the pocket time he needed. The turnaround was more than tactical—it showed maturity and resilience from a roster still learning how to win on the road.
2️⃣ Jordan Love Shows He’s the Guy
After early season inconsistency, Love delivered the best game of his young career: 29 for 37 passing, 360 yards, and three touchdowns. He tied a franchise mark with 20 consecutive completions and looked calm in high pressure situations. His timing with receivers was laser sharp, particularly on deep posts to Christian Watson and crossers to Romeo Doubs. For a fan base still measuring every throw against Aaron Rodgers’ legacy, Sunday felt like a turning point.
3️⃣ Tucker Kraft Breaks Out
Tight end Tucker Kraft became the unsung hero, racking up 143 yards and two scores 131 after the catch. His power through tackles and ability to find soft spots in zone coverage gave Love a reliable outlet. The chemistry between the two hints at a dangerous offensive pairing for the rest of the season. If Kraft maintains this pace, the Packers may have found their next long term difference maker.
4️⃣ Defense Slams the Door
Coordinator Jeff Hafley’s unit adjusted beautifully after halftime. Linebacker Quay Walker’s sideline to sideline pursuit, a key strip sack by Rashan Gary, and two late third down stops defined the finish. The defense surrendered only nine points after the break, forcing Pittsburgh to abandon the run and play catch-up. That shift allowed Green Bay’s pass rush to tee off, sealing the win with controlled aggression rather than desperation.
5️⃣ Steelers Face Hard Questions
For Pittsburgh, the loss exposed depth concerns and red-zone inefficiency. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers posted respectable numbers but couldn’t overcome dropped passes and injuries to DeShon Elliott and Daniel Ekuale. Mike Tomlin’s team still sits above .500, yet the AFC North race tightens each week, and execution must improve quickly.
⚡ Final Thought
Green Bay improved to 5-1-1 and now holds a firm grip on the NFC North. More importantly, the Packers proved they can win ugly, adapt mid-game, and finish strong—traits of legitimate contenders. The road remains long, but if this blend of poise and creativity continues, Week 8 might be remembered as the night the Jordan Love led Packers officially arrived.