Two weeks off for rest allowed several starters, some of whom may be returning from injuries.
Preview: Packers vs. 49ers: odds, forecasts, and how to watch the NFL Divisional Playoffs
The NFC’s top and bottom seeds square battle on Saturday at Levi’s Stadium in the NFL playoffs divisional round between the No. 1 San Francisco 49ers and the No. 7 Green Bay Packers.
After putting on their most impressive display of the season, Green Bay is coming into this game on Saturday night. Thanks to a stellar day from quarterback Jordan Love and running back Aaron Jones, the Packers led 27-7 at halftime and went on to win 48-32. With three touchdowns from Jones on the ground and three more from Love through passes, Green Bay won their first wild card round since 2016.
Because they had secured the top seed in Week 17 of the regular season, San Francisco was able to avoid the wild card round. A number of starters had a two-week break to recuperate, and some may be returning from injuries. Arik Armstead, a defensive lineman, participated in full-time practice on Thursday despite missing the last five regular season games. The 49ers are the only club left in the NFL playoffs with a top-three scoring offence and defence after the wild card round.
AccuWeather’s forecast indicates rain and wind gusts up to 18 mph for Levi’s Stadium this Saturday, even if it won’t be as cold, snowy, or windy as some games this postseason.
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“Green Bay really impressed in its win against the Cowboys,” writes Jeremy Cluff. But, San Francisco is well-rested and prepared for this game, and the 49ers’ defence will be far more difficult for the Packers to score on than Dallas’ defence was. We anticipate a close contest, but the 49ers will win it in the end by making a crucial stop.”
FOX Sports: Packers 24, 49ers 30,
“Will the Packers put up much of a fight? San Francisco has been playing at home for the past two weeks and is a clear favourite. But Green Bay, with its rookie quarterback in Love playing his finest game towards the conclusion of the season, is a team that has nothing to lose. I think Green Bay has a good chance of winning close.
Packers +9.5 in the picks.
“This is a battle between two bright, stud coaches who take great pride in their offensive creativity,” writes Chris Farley. There is further rivalry between the two protagonist men because of their similar, intertwined journeys that brought them to where they are now. How sure am I that San Francisco can stop Love in the end, even if they are ahead by double digits going into the fourth quarter? I’m not. This game is predicted to be closer than you might think.
San Francisco 49ers, winners and losers at -9.5
“The 49ers have the Packers beaten in almost every way, even though they are playing well,” remarks Andre Ifill. San Francisco’s offences are superior in terms of weaponry and ball movement. San Francisco’s pass protection and ball security are comparable to those of Green Bay. The 49ers are superior defensively against the run, pass, and force more turnovers. Additionally, San Francisco’s pass rush is superior. Although on the road, the Packers are up against a superior squad.
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