ClutchPoints
It’s a massive matchup for both the Green Bay Packers and the San Francisco 49ers. There’s always several storylines to watch in a Packers vs. 49ers matchup, and this one will be no different. On one side, the Packers are 7-3 and trying to make a run to the playoffs. They’re undoubtedly one of the better teams in the NFC by record, but they — and especially quarterback Jordan Love — have had their ups and downs. On the other-side, the 49ers are 5-5 and barely holding onto postseason hope. Even worse, the 49ers are completely banged up.
George Kittle is expected to play and there’s reason to believe he’ll be an impact-player against the Packers, but star defensive end Nick Bosa is out with a hip/oblique and it was just announced on Friday that starting quarterback Brock Purdy is going to miss the game with shoulder soreness.
The 49ers are in dire straits, but they come to play anytime the Packers are on the schedule. We also know the Packers are locked in for this one, because they’re going to be looking for revenge against this 49ers team that knocked them out of the playoffs last season.
It’s a big game, no doubt. As such, here are the four most important players in this matchup.
We know Purdy is not going to play for the 49ers, and anytime there’s a backup quarterback in the game, the opposing defense has an objective to feast. You can bet Packers defensive coordinator is planning on sending the heat against projected starter Brandon Allen, and this is where Rashan Gary is going to have to earn his big contract.
The Packers gave Gary a four-year, $96 million contract extension in October of 2023 but ever since that point, he’s notched just eight sacks in his last 22 games, including the playoffs.
He’s basically been on a milk carton in 2024 despite being paid to be one of the top pass rushers in the NFL.
If the Packers are going to make a real playoff run, Gary is going to have to start racking up some real sack numbers. 49ers left tackle Trent Williams (ankle) is also questionable for this game, so this is the perfect opportunity for a breakout game from Gary.
The Packers have a true “bell cow” back in Josh Jacobs. He’s sixth in the league in rushing attempts with 176 and his 838 total rushing yards are third most in the NFL behind only Derrick Henry and Saquon Barkley. Jacobs is a true star, and when Packers head coach Matt LaFleur leans on him and his 4.8 yards per carry, Green Bay’s offense is methodical and dangerous.
Not to mention, Love shines as a play-action quarterback (especially now that he’s once again healthy) so the more the Packers can lean on Jacobs, the better their offensive...
