As we head into the second weekend of the NFL Playoffs, here are three bold predictions for the matchup between the Green Bay Packers and San Francisco 49ers.
After a shocking win on the road against the Dallas Cowboys, the Packers will be faced with arguably the toughest task any team will see this postseason, as they will be facing a rested San Francisco 49ers team at home.
The 49ers are considered the favorites in the NFC, and for good reason. When looking at the roster, they don’t have a hole on their team on either side of the ball, as it seems like their biggest question mark is at quarterback, with a player who for most of the season has been an MVP candidate.
For the Packers, they are once again playing with house money. This team wasn’t expected by many to beat the Cowboys, but they not only won that game, they dominated it. With an exciting matchup between two historic franchises, here are three bold predictions for the game.
Packers get nothing going on the ground
Against the Cowboys, the Packers were able to do a nice job of moving the ball on the ground. Aaron Jones had one of his best games of the season, as he totaled over 100 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns.
However, the Packers might have a hard time running the football against the 49ers, as they rank third in the league in rushing defense. For Green Bay, establishing some sort of balance on offense will be important, but it’s unlikely that they will be able to find similar success on the ground as they did against Dallas.
Prediction: Green Bay totals under 60 rushing yards as a team
McCaffrey carries the load
Coming into the game, the Packers’ defense will be challenged with stopping one of the best and most talented offenses in the NFL. Led by Christian McCaffrey, the 49ers are always going to be a team that wants to run the ball first and foremost.
Unfortunately for the Packers, their running defense has been suspect this season, as they rank 28th in rushing defense. This poses a big problem against the 49ers and McCaffrey, as they will certainly be giving him the ball early and often. Against a poor rushing defense, expect a big game from CMC.
Prediction: McCaffrey totals over 125 rushing yards.
Purdy looks human
It has been a great season for Brock Purdy in 2023, as he was able to have a strong first full season with the 49ers. Even though he has had an MVP-caliber season, many people are still doubting Purdy. While there have been some hiccups down the stretch, Purdy overall has had a great season.
In the matchup against the Packers, the 49ers have a big advantage on the ground, which could lead to them not relying heavily on Purdy. Also, the matchup against the Packers’ passing defense isn’t a great one. While the 49ers should win, don’t expect a massive game from Purdy.
Prediction: Purdy totals 225 passing yards.
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