NFC Divisional Playoff Preview-Packers vs 49ers
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After quarterback Jordan Love and the Green Bay Packers shocked the world in their upset against the Dallas Cowboys, can the green and gold continue their Cinderella run?
Their next opponent will be a familiar and difficult foe in the San Francisco 49ers lead by MVP candidate in QB Brock Purdy. Since the last decade, the Packers haven’t beaten the 49ers in a playoff game since 2002. Their last two matchups have had offensive collapses and special teams blunders from the Packers. Now with Love at the helm, will it be different.
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In the wild card, the Love threw for 272 yards and three touchdowns against the Cowboys defense, which was ranked fifth overall allowing 299.7 net yards per game (YDS/G). The Cowboys passing defense was ranked fifth as well, allowing 187.4 YDS/G.
The 49ers meanwhile, had an extra week of rest as the first seed in the NFC. Going into the playoffs, the 49ers defense is ranked eighth overall, allowing 303.9 YDS/G. Their passing defense is ranked 14th in the league allowing 214.2 YDS/G. Both teams do a great job at attacking the opposing QB in the pass rush. The 49ers have accumulated 48 sacks on the year, with the Packers not far behind at 45. However, both teams also do a tremendous job at protecting the QB. The 49ers have allowed 34 sacks on Purdy, while the Packers have allowed the third fewest in the league at 30 sacks.
The Packers defense overall has not had the best of years. They rank 17th in the NFL allowing 335.1 YDS/G. In terms of passing defense however, the Packers have the edge. They rank ninth in the league allowing 206.8 YDS/G.
In terms of defense, one big key that could turn momentum to either side is interceptions. The 49ers are tied with the Chicago Bears for most defensive interceptions with 22. Meanwhile the Packers have the second fewest interceptions in the league with seven total defensive interceptions this season. The 49ers have done a great job at capitalizing off of bad QB throws, while the Packers have struggled.
Ultimately there are two key factors. The first as previously mentioned are interceptions. The second key factor is who’s offense will break first. Both teams have good defenses, but the 49ers have the edge on offense. The 49ers overall have the second best offense in the NFL averaging 398.4 YDS/G. This is complimented by the fourth best passing offense in the NFL, averaging 257.9 YDS/G.
So interceptions and which team’s offense breaks first will be the keys to winning and advancing to the NFC championship. This will be a sight to see.
