The ending of a game frequently overshadows all else, but Green Bay Packers edge rusher Micah Parsons made a clutch third-quarter play that wound up having a significant impact on Thursday night's 27-18 win over the Washington Commanders. Management invested a ton of resources to acquire the two-time First-Team All-Pro and four-time Pro Bowler, and so far, he is rewarding their commitment.

The Commanders put together a potentially momentum-changing drive that seemed destined to end in points. Enter Parsons.  The 26-year-old joined Edgerrin Cooper, his prized fantasy football draft pick, in sacking quarterback Jayden Daniels on third-and-3 for a 10-yard loss. Washington kicker Matt Gay missed a 52-yard field goal and the team remained stuck in a 14-3 deficit. The Packers then secured three points of their own on the next drive. What a swing.

Daniels and the offense did show some life later, but it was too late. Green Bay's defense left its mark, and QB Jordan Love handled the rest. It was a complete effort by a squad that has looked mightily impressive through two games. One cannot overlook the Parsons effect.

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Micah Parsons raises Packers to scary heights

When the Packers traded two first-round draft picks and a valuable talent like Kenny Clark, in addition to forking over a history-making $186 million contract, they sent a thunderous message to the locker room and fan base that they were serious about contending for a championship. Parsons now has one and a half sacks this season, as he continues to build up toward a full workload. His presence is elevating a defense that was dangerous before he arrived.

No. 1 does not need to record a sack to make a sizable impact on a game. He commands a considerable amount of attention from the offensive line. Look no further than the Commanders, who were triple-teaming the terrific pass-rusher on Thursday. When adjustments are made to combat such a powerful force, others will have opportunities to feast.

Micah Parsons, Edgerrin Cooper and the rest of this fierce defense will try to stay aggressive when the Packers visit the Cleveland Browns next Sunday. Every quarterback on their schedule is on notice going forward.