Can Packers Unplug McCaffrey and the YAC Kings?
San Francisco should win, but has everything to lose.
Before we dive into whether the Packers can pull off the upset of the millennium, let’s savor the fact that enough important questions were answered in Dallas that nothing going forward can take the shine off this season, except maybe Joe Barry not getting fired:
The next good and possibly great quarterback? Check. Progress by a roster that isn’t old enough to rent a car? Check. A sky-high ceiling despite some holes? Yes indeed.
Flowers are rightly being thrown at Jordan Love and Aaron Jones for their brilliant performances against the Cowboys, with a couple of petunias tossed Barry’s way. But there are other key takeaways from what went down in Big D that will be vital for the Packers in the future, no matter what happens Saturday.
This team has shown it can win — and even dominate — without everything revolving around one person. Sure, if Sean Clifford suddenly had to play the results on the field would change, but the team isn’t hostage to the demands, the contract and the personality of one player, hall of famer or not. We can argue all day about Aaron Rodgers, but the vibe around the Packers is palpably more upbeat, more mutually supportive and more open than it has been in years. Culture isn’t everything, but good things happen when it shifts from “I don’t trust you until you prove why I should” to “you wouldn’t be here if you weren’t talented, so go get ‘em.” Not to mention all the off-field distractions. Truth be told, the man famous for telling everyone to R-E-L-A-X was making the sphincters of everyone in the organization clench on a regular basis, and the Dallas game felt like the culmination of a season in which we all had a wonderful cleanse.
Second, much has been made about how we’re now witnessing Matt LaFleur’s offense free of number 12’s stubbornness and occasional acts of sabotage. As important as that is, what’s equally exciting is that finally, on both sides of the ball, the scheme is being tweaked week to week based on the opponent. The arrogance and rigidity of insisting that “we play our system, see if you can beat us” was Mike McCarthy’s downfall in Green Bay, and again last weekend.
The Packers’ D finally made adjustments, aided by McCarthy deploying the basic West Coast playbook he can’t seem to quit. I’d place a sizable bet that Coach Mike figured, “I’ve got Cee Dee Lamb and they have Joe Barry, so we’re good.” Deception and unpredictability are essential to winning in today’s NFL, and nothing is worse than when the film you put down barely changes and defensive coordinators you’re up against have a much easier week preparing. I worried early this season that LaFleur was repeating this mistake, but in retrospect I think he had to keep things simple and repetitive until his youngsters got the execution right, even at the expense of keeping defenses off balance. Now we are seeing creativity bloom in this offense, with receivers open to such a degree that in the case of the Musgrave touchdown, the people closest to him when he caught the ball were the Dallas Cowgirls.
Unfortunately, Kyle Shanahan is not Mike McCarthy, and the Cowboys are nothing close to the 49ers. Their overall stats are similar in many categories, but the big problem is that unlike Dallas, San Francisco’s greatest strength — running the ball — is up against the Packers greatest weakness, stopping it. And if you sell out against the run, Brock Purdy, Brandon Aiyuk, George Kittle and Deebo Samuel can carve you up. If you sell out deep to stop the explosives, the Niners are happy to grind their way down the field with short and intermediate passes, screens, and whatever Christian McCaffrey feels like doing.
Last week, I argued that the offensive line was the key to the Packers upsetting the Cowboys, and sure enough Micah Parsons had one pressure and Aaron Jones had big holes to work with. I’d go so far as to say that it wasn’t until the offensive line firmed up that Green Bay took its big leap forward. Zach Tom is going to have to be up to the task again against Nick Bosa, and the line has to keep Love clean overall.
If there is one crack in the armor, it’s that by DVOA the 49ers are average in defending the run, so once again Green Bay needs a big day from Jones, which means the O-line has to come through again.
But Joe Barry has to do something to minimize the damage that McCaffrey wreaks. This likely means safety help, which would mean the secondary playing more man than they are used to. Their leverage, discipline and tackling are going to have to be flawless. San Francisco is nothing if not a collection of YAC monsters.
Bottom line: In every game the Niners lost this season, they were held to 20 points or less. They averaged 33.4 in their 12 wins, holding their opponents to less than 20 points in 10 of them. I figure Green Bay needs 27, and if everything breaks their way, they hold SF to just below that.
To do it, they need sustained, clock-eating drives to keep the Niners offense off the field. They need to move the ball with a varied attack to keep San Francisco’s defense guessing. And they need to get to Purdy; he’s made mistakes when he’s under pressure.
This game could easily be a blowout, but the Packers will be competitive if they play as well as they have the past couple of games, and don’t lose the turnover battle. For a team not expected to even sniff the playoffs, competitive ain't bad in the divisional round against one of the top two teams in the league. All the pressure is on San Francisco. GPG.
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Jonathan Krim grew up in New York but got hooked on the Packers — and on hating the Cowboys — watching the Ice Bowl as a young child. He blames bouts of unhappiness in his late teens on Dan Devine. A journalist for several decades who now lives in California, he enjoys trafficking in obscure cultural references, lame dad jokes and occasionally preposterous takes. Jonathan is a Packers shareholder, and insists on kraut with his brats. You can follow Jonathan on twitter at @Jkrim.
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Comments (122)
PackEyedOptimist
January 19, 2024 at 06:20 am
I'll just leave this look at our future, here: Ages of the Packers roster:
22 Dontayvion Wicks WR, Lukas Van Ness ED, Carrington Valentine CB, Grant DuBose WR, Thyrick Pitts WR
23 Romeo Doubs WR, Jayden Reed WR, Rasheed Walker OT, Tucker Kraft TE, Luke Musgrave TE, Karl Brooks DT, Quay Walker LB, Colby Wooden DT, Brenton Cox Jr. ED, Malik Heath WR, Christian Young LB, Joel Wilson TE
24 Zach Tom OT, Christian Watson WR, Daniel Whelan P, Bo Melton WR, Eric Stokes CB, Anthony Johnson Jr. S, Kingsley Enagbare ED, Isaiah McDuffie LB, Emanuel Wilson RB, Luke Tenuta OT, Henry Pearson FB, Zyon Gilbert CB, Anthony Johnson CB, Caleb Jones OT, Keshawn Banks LB, Ellis Merriweather RB, Arron Mosby LB
25 Jordan Love QB, Josh Myers C, Devonte Wyatt DT, Anders Carlson K, Sean Clifford QB, AJ Dillon RB, Patrick Taylor RB, Samori Toure WR, Kristian Welch LB, Robert Rochell CB, Kadeem Telfort OT, Jonathan Ford DT, Deslin Alexandre LB, Tyler Coyle S, Michael Jordan OL, David Long Jr. CB, Deandre Johnson LB
26 Jaire Alexander CB, Rashan Gary ED, Keisean Nixon DB, Jon Runyan OG, Darnell Savage S, T.J. Slaton DT, Josiah Deguara FB, Royce Newman OL, Tyler Davis TE
27 Corey Ballentine CB, Zayne Anderson S , Chris Slayton DT
28 Kenny Clark DT, Elgton Jenkins OL, Jonathan Owens S, Yosh Nijman OT, Matt Orzech SP, Alex McGough QB
29 Aaron Jones RB, Eric Wilson LB, Rudy Ford S
30 De'Vondre Campbell LB
31 Preston Smith ED
32. David Bakhtiari OT
NickPerry
January 19, 2024 at 07:14 am
Nice breakdown. It's crazy how young this team is. As long as the ego's don't start getting in the way with the success this team will be having, they could REALLY go on a run.
As in a run on Superbowl Titles over the next few years.
Thank you Gutey!
Razer
January 19, 2024 at 07:43 am
Compared to the 49ers there aren't a lot of household names on the Packers roster. This will truly be a David and Goliath match.
Houndog
January 19, 2024 at 08:09 am
Razer, you said it all.
"This will truly be a David and Goliath match".
In remembering who won that match, I'm keeping my fingers crossed hoping that whatever leaves GB's slingshot hits the mark.
I'm happy with the season thus far, but as I live in the SF Bay area one more step would be fabulous.
DoubleJ
January 19, 2024 at 08:33 am
Based just on salary cap the 49ers window is closing sooner rather than later. Right now they have an estimated (at best) $1.5M cap room next year. That means they don't have enough money to cover draft picks. I've also see that overthecap.com has their top 51 at $281M for next year which would be about $40M over the cap. If they are $40M over the cap that is serious trouble as they will need to cut $50-55M in salary in order to sign draft picks and have a small reserve fund.
Thegreatreynoldo
January 19, 2024 at 04:01 pm
I think SF will be fine. They have 3 third round picks and some 5-7th rounders. That (signing the draft class) will cost next to nothing. They might lose some depth when they lose Chase Young and Kinlaw (though he isn't a big loss), but I don't think their other UFAs amount to much. They have 6 big money places to generate cap space as necessary without unduly backloading their cap.
OTC likes to be mysterious. What OTC failed to mention is that SF is going to roll $35M in spare 2023 cap into 2024. I have SF in the black, and a few million in the red when they have to count 52nd, 53rd guys and their PS. Very manageable.
https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/49ers-have...
Tundraboy
January 19, 2024 at 11:38 pm
I've seen that before, and against SF, so you never know!
RCPackerFan
January 19, 2024 at 07:45 am
I usually go and type something before I look at comments, but I saw this on my way down and it definitely intrigued me.
It is really crazy at how young our roster is.
Of the players you listed 51 of them are 25 or younger.
That means 24 are 26 and older. And only 3 of them are 30 and above.
It is really crazy when you look at the breakdown of it.
Well done!
SicSemperTyrannis
January 19, 2024 at 09:07 am
7 of those names I don't even recognize, which means Gutey continues to churn ...
Cheezehead72
January 19, 2024 at 06:32 am
Very good article. I really like how Jonathan explained the difference in thinking between Rodgers and Love.
I would say that the Packers should play more zone if they are up to it. Yes I know they are a better man team but with the the threat of running, play action , and jet sweeps it is better for the whole defense to be looking at the play. They need to have 3 down linemen with the OLB back about a yards to make sure they defend the edge and force the runner up the middle. The defense will have to run to the ball and not get out of position. They have to play like there are 11 players out there not one.
All I can say is win or lose this has been a better season than I imagined.
Let the games begin.
Razer
January 19, 2024 at 07:52 am
...They need to have 3 down linemen...
I like this strategy. The two man front gets gashed too easily. With 3 guys we may be able to collapse the pocket and keep Purdy from stepping up. Our D-line could a factor if they can take the game to the 9ers O-line. Big ask but we only need a couple more guys to help our studs Clark and Preston.
...All I can say is win or lose this has been a better season than I imagined...
So true and so thankful that this team is on a good track for the future.
DoubleJ
January 19, 2024 at 08:35 am
Maybe run some more 3-3-5 nickel D. That would take Campbell or McDuffie off the field but still allows for some more run stops while being able to defend the pass.
murf7777
January 19, 2024 at 08:46 am
It’s tough against a team like SF who have so many weapons….you take away 1 of the LB’s and they beat you on the outside, you take away 1 of the DL and they beat you up the middle or the seam. Not easy being a DC against this team. Tackling and gap integrity will be very important. Quay had an awesome game against Dallas, he will need to do it again.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 19, 2024 at 09:10 am
Nixon matched him in tackles, we could use that again too ...
GPG!
jannesbjornson
January 19, 2024 at 09:55 am
Walker and Gary have to show up. A 4-2look with the front four hands in the ground can derail these offenses. The Crows went full five on the LOS and stymied Santa Clara. The key is full frontal attack and score points, make
Purdy one dimensional. Hopefully, Jaire is ready to roll. Valentine is not afraid to cover. Nixon is gaining confidence. Seven one picks on this defense. They cannot retreat, or lose spirit. If Barry has his head up his____there will be no victory. There is no reason the Pack should not prevail. A young team, but these are all high picks at the skill positions. This group has a chance to make another statement. Play to WIN.
LambeauPlain
January 19, 2024 at 09:37 am
This is a good article by Jonathan.
He also said this about playing zone D in this game, which I agree with:
"If you sell out deep to stop the explosives, the Niners are happy to grind their way down the field with short and intermediate passes, screens, and whatever Christian McCaffrey feels like doing."
Playing Barry Ball prevent (the win) D plays right into the hands of the Niners O strengths. It would be folly.
However, it is what Barry instinctively, routinely, frustratingly does...so you could be right.
NickPerry
January 19, 2024 at 06:33 am
"Unfortunately, Kyle Shanahan is not Mike McCarthy, and the Cowboys are nothing close to the 49ers. Their overall stats are similar in many categories, but the big problem is that unlike Dallas, San Francisco’s greatest strength — running the ball"
Nope, Kyle Shanahan isn't Mike McCarthy. McCarthy has at least won a SB. Sorry, but I get so sick of the constant praise Shanahan gets for never winning shit! I mean he didn't get to a 500 winning % until just last season, his 6th season! Yet this dude is talked about like he's right up there with Bill Belichick. It's absolutely nuts IMO.
But what Shanahan does do well is find your weakness and he's relentless once he finds it. I swear to God on the first 3rd and 1 or 4th and 1 and Barry has Clark and Wyatt lined up hands in the dirt with Gary and Smith standing up on the edge my TV is going out the window. The Packers, Joe Barry, and MLF CAN NOT make this EASY for the 49ers.
Whatever happens Saturday is ALL gravy for this season. If the Packers win, they actually have a good shot at the SB (Holy Shit). If they lose I'll be sad but SO PROUD of this team...AND I'll go into 2024 knowing the 49ers will be OURS in 2024 and beyond. Better get it right Shanahan you overrated putz. Because next year your ass will be ours...Hell, it might start Saturday Night!
Worth Mentioning....
The forecast in San Francisco Saturday Night is showers around kickoff and rain by 7 PM. It's going to start raining around 3 PM this afternoon and KEEP raining well after Jordan Love throws his 3rd TD pass of the game. The winds are supposed to be around 10 to 15 MPH...This from Weather.com
THIS storm we're having on the West Coast is supposed to be a big one. I don't know if this is a positive for the Packers or not.
Razer
January 19, 2024 at 08:05 am
...I swear to God on the first 3rd and 1 or 4th and 1 and Barry has Clark and Wyatt lined up hands in the dirt with Gary and Smith standing up on the edge my TV is going out the window...
Your TV will land on mine. I'd rather see a 5 man front and the chaos that ensures. Hopefully, Joe Barry show us something more. He has picked up his game.
I don't agree with you about Shanahan. He is smart and his guys play sound football. He has had good success without a premier QB. I'd hate to think of our team led by Garapolo or Purdy. A good coach gets his guys playing together and gets more than the sum of the parts - kind a like what Matt LaFleur did this year.
T7Steve
January 19, 2024 at 08:14 am
It would be nice if the Packers could come up with a plan to stop 2-point conversions too.
SF probably knows it's now a gimmy and plan to run them after every TD.
murf7777
January 19, 2024 at 08:49 am
NP, I agree about Shanahan, he’s very good, but not how he is positioned by the media. IMO, Mlf is just as good.
13TimeChamps
January 19, 2024 at 10:01 am
SF has, arguably, the most talent in the NFL. with the most...9...Pro bowlers this year. I think any number of decent coaches could have won as many, if not more, games with this loaded roster.
I also think Shanahan is somewhat overrated. He's a good coach that's blessed with a ton of talented players. That's about it. Win a ring or two and maybe that perception will change.
jannesbjornson
January 19, 2024 at 10:20 am
We attended the last California storm of the century @ Candlestick in 2002, scoring tickets from my niece. The stadium was filled with Pack fans, easily out numbering the locals. Favre versus Jeff Garcia and T.O. The matchup is not in the order of this year's talent, but the 49rs can be beaten. William Henderson in open space terrorizing the secondary. Dillon can do the same thing if he can handle the ball. I would expect some smash mouth schemes from LaFleur. Do not go finesse. Remember, Bosa has had a couple bad knees, Walker had good games vs Young in the BIG.
murf7777
January 19, 2024 at 11:07 am
The key to the game is not get behind....like in Dallas, take the ball or hopefully SF defers and ram it down their throat for a TD taking 7-8 minutes along the way, than stop them and repeat!
T7Steve
January 19, 2024 at 06:43 am
You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make him drink.
MLF can lead the Packers to San Fransico and can make them shine.
I'm not sure if the first line works, but I always wanted to work it into an analogy about football, somehow.
It's the difference between the Packer teams prior to this season and this season. This young team doesn't yet realize there're choices. They just do what they're told and are being told to do what's in their best interest.
I go into this weekend's game the same way I did last weekend. I hope these young guys leave it all on the field and if they get beat the other team will have earned it the Packers didn't lose it by stupid penalties or missed calls by the officials. They need to play well enough to overcome outside influences and inexperience.
Hopeful not hopeless.
Razer
January 19, 2024 at 08:09 am
...I hope these young guys leave it all on the field and if they get beat the other team will have earned it...
I have already given my wife this pep talk. Like you, I just want them to play hard and play well as they can. If a more talented, experienced team beat them so be it BUT make them earn every yard.
...Hopeful not hopeless....
I like this - Go Packers
porupack
January 19, 2024 at 08:26 am
Razer, that is right there on the comment I was going to make. So many posts about fans content with the season whether the packers win or lose, but I prefer your sentiment: as long as they play their best, play hard, mistake free and have a damn good plan, then I'll always enjoy a hard fought, good game.
Razer
January 19, 2024 at 08:50 am
When I heard that coach LaFleur told the boys to make it "grimey" down in Dallas I had to smile. Nothing like making the Boys drive their shiny car through the mud. I am hoping that our guys come with a toe-to-toe attitude.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 19, 2024 at 09:22 am
I'll add one other thing:
our every player, giving 100% effort, on every play, in every game.
THAT'S what GB lacked last season. THAT is what I've been looking for this season. THAT is a component of character, team culture, and it becomes part of a winning culture.
I can't say that has been the reality in every game this season, but I CAN say there's been significant improvement in this area AND it's essential tomorrow. Part of the drastic turnaround is when our O started showing up for their first drive instead of waiting for the second half. Based on how they've been playing recently, the first drive will tell us a LOT about how the game will go. Another thing is MLF has been using the strategy of getting as many playmakers as possible involved early in the game. Part of the reason for that is to determine who the hot hand is, and who not to go to. Hopefully everybody catches their first target and all options are available 🍻
GPG!
T7Steve
January 19, 2024 at 09:43 am
A good sign of growth is if you stub your toe at first, you come back stronger and learn from it. This team has shown it can come back after adversity. It just plays better out of the gate if everything is clicking.
LambeauPlain
January 19, 2024 at 09:42 am
Second verse same as last week's first verse:
It is difficult and it is doable.
Coldworld
January 19, 2024 at 10:15 am
This is going to be a game where we have to be the more physical team. Their O line, other than Williams and the C can be beaten. We have to. Purdy is mobile, but if you can collapse the pocket and move him he becomes vulnerable to bad decisions.
On O, they are going to run. They average about 140 yards a game, but if you go too heavy, their base group will just spread out and every one of them remain effective. They will pound the middle of the field with the best FB TE combination in the league and Deebo as well. That’s a hell of a challenge. We have to blunt the run and move the pocket.
On O, they have perhaps the 2 best ILBs in the league behind a pretty good DL. Can this OL get us time to develop pass plays? Can we run block well enough to blunt the rush and spring Jones? If we can, and this is a weather game, then Jones could be very difficult to bring down. I think we have as many weapons that can do damage over the middle with YAC and speed as they do, but we need time and we need to have the run working to capitalize.
I do think their two linebackers (ex college safeties) who rely on their athleticism could be exploited by Musgrave and Kraft. They aren’t as small as Dallas’ but they won’t have faced many TE combos as athletic as ours despite being physically larger. That could be a hidden key for us. This could be a game where our TEs give them a taste of their own medicine.
I’m looking forward to this match up. It will tell us a lot about how we use our pieces and how good they are. It’s going to be a tough one and it could be sublime or a rough one. It’s a game for home truths and we need that before the hyperbole truly takes off.
We need to tackle like demons and we need to play without fear. We need to take it to them on their home turf. If we do, I think we have the weapons. Whether we have the D and OL is less clear, but it’s time to find out and we won’t get there by playing soft or defensively on either side of the ball, so we will
Learn a lot about our play callers too.
Win or lose. We’ve already won for the future this season beyond my expectations as a roster. Can we now show that we can overcome a very good team tactically and physically already? It’s going to take our very best from our coaches and players to do so.
Bitternotsour
January 19, 2024 at 10:54 am
Look closely at the 49er offense and you see GB as they mature. There is a unique similarity. Should be interesting to see how the respective defense attack these sets. Fred Warner is all-world, but not invincible. Oren Burks is still Oren Burks.
Damn I hope we have Jaire.
Coldworld
January 19, 2024 at 11:31 am
I think Mike Wahle described it as playing our older brothers.
Tundraboy
January 20, 2024 at 12:14 am
Great post. Generated a few thoughts, particularly the potential matchup of our TEs. Reminded me of games in the past where we didn't necessarily match up to a clearly superior vaunted opponent, and won by surprise. But this is very different. The 9ers have heard all about us after Dallas, but sometimes, and this could very well be one of those times., where they may have heard about us but they haven't played against us! This is a different Packers team. Hoping they get to know us much better.
PackEyedOptimist
January 19, 2024 at 06:57 am
With the rain forecast, this game could easily come down to slips, drops, and turnovers. Just one or two rain-slicked events could easily sway the final results.
Let's hope we're both GOOD and LUCKY.
GPG!
NickPerry
January 19, 2024 at 07:10 am
Yes sir!!
Razer
January 19, 2024 at 08:14 am
...With the rain forecast, this game could easily come down to slips, drops, and turnovers...
Not sure who gets an advantage with poor weather. Apparently, Jordan Love's paw size was one of the metrics in drafting him (gripping the ball in the cold). It will still require a solid game plan from our coaches to put these youngsters in a position to compete. Not just a good plan but smart in-game adjustments.
MooPack
January 19, 2024 at 08:22 am
A strip sack on those Purdy little hands would help.
LambeauPlain
January 19, 2024 at 09:58 am
And this is another reason to play aggressively with the front 7. Turnovers are the great equalizer for any D.
Rush 5 routinely...some 6 and in rare, key situational football, send 'em, all 7. Disrupt run lanes on the way to constant "Purdy Pressure."
The Packers Defense has the talent & depth to do this. Barry could also throw Shanahan some uncharacteristic curveballs with occasional 4 down lineman, or blitz Walker...even play him in the Edge rotation some snaps...send in Nixon or Owens at the Purdy fella.
Will Barry show creativity to slow/stop this Niners O? Experience says no...but I would enjoy the surprise!
MooPack
January 19, 2024 at 11:20 am
Agree. I like the idea of him delay blitzing Walker. He has that ability and it's worked a couple times. Barry hasn't done that enough.
DoubleJ
January 19, 2024 at 08:44 am
Purdy has not done as well in the rain this year. I believe two of their losses came in rainy conditions and Purdy was more turnover prone in those games. Is it due to hand size? That cannot be taken for granted as he does have some of the smallest hands of any QB in the league.
Razer
January 19, 2024 at 08:54 am
Imagine if this clash came down to a case of "small hands". It would throw everything that we think into the fire pit. Still, if we stop the run, we do force Purdy to throw...using those small hands. Too funny.
DoubleJ
January 19, 2024 at 09:00 am
To be honest a 9.25" hand span isn't "small" in the grand scheme of things. However, for QBs that is .25+" smaller than most QBs in the NFL.
Coldworld
January 19, 2024 at 04:40 pm
The average hand size for the 39 quarterbacks taken in the first round from 2008 to 2020 is 9.7 inches. ESPN Stats & Information.
The QB with the largest hands of that group was Mark Sanchez in 2009 with 10 1/2 inch hands, the same size as Love’s.
The smallest hands measured 9 inches: Joe Burrow, Ryan Tannehill and Jared Goff.
We may be making a bit much of this. Purdy-sized hands haven’t hurt Mahomes.
Bitternotsour
January 19, 2024 at 05:49 pm
i'm 5' 9" and have 9.25" hands and was pretty sure at age 7 that I could play in the NFL.
The_Baloney_Stops_Here
January 19, 2024 at 09:20 am
It could also come down to hand size. Love has the biggest hands of any qb in football. Purdy? Not quite baby hands but he isnt far off. A wet football is a remarkably large disadvantage for the 49ers.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 19, 2024 at 09:27 am
I'm not sure that a muddy field doesn't give SF an advantage. Of their playmakers, Jusczyk hasn't been getting mentioned lately. These guys are TOUGH! If they simply plow ahead, can GB stop them?
GB favors finesse.
Bitternotsour
January 19, 2024 at 10:24 am
Do they favor finesse? I'm not seeing it the same way. Green Bay is the closest team to SF in terms of style of play. They're built similarly, the reason Deguara was drafted was to fill the Jusczyk role, Watson not dissimilar to Aiyuk, Deebo/Reed. Our tight end situations are a wash right now. We run a motion based offense, and we throw timing routes.
To me, at least offensively, these teams are mirrors of one another. We have more youth/upside.
Coldworld
January 19, 2024 at 10:47 am
Unless it’s a torrent and the wind is much more forceful or unpredictable, that really should not be that big a problem. Looking at the National Weather service, winds gusting to 22mph could be a bigger issue, but both of these teams are more about yards after the catch than long bombs.
The NWS prediction for the stadium as of 10:30 central on Friday:
Saturday:
Rain. High near 59. South southwest wind around 14 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New precipitation amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.
Saturday Night
Rain. Low around 56. South southeast wind 8 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New precipitation amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch possible.
beerandbrats
January 19, 2024 at 07:06 am
I really wish we were going into this game with Jordan Love in the record books with a perfect passer rating and a 48-16 win over Dallas because that sends a very strong message to SF. 48-16 says we stomped the cowgirls and you are next SF. 48-32 says we're coming for you but we're bringing JB with us.
porupack
January 19, 2024 at 08:29 am
Well yeah, but each week is a new game, and its maybe not good to dwell on one's accomplishments last week. Maybe better to be hungry and go out there to have one better game, and perfect it.
beerandbrats
January 19, 2024 at 08:40 am
You're missing my point porupack. SF is a very confident team but we could have shaken their confidence with a completely dominating performance at Dallas. We could have created some doubt and uncertainty with a blowout win. We took 2 steps forward but 1 step back. We lost a little momentum going into this game by giving up those garbage points.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 19, 2024 at 09:30 am
One advantage here is the pansy ass way that both JB and MLF let up in the second half, completely betraying the slogan of AGNFB, will NOT fly against SF. They obviously tried to avoid injury, to have a better chance in this game. And the W still counts every bit as much. Hopefully that strategy pays off.
GPG!
Bitternotsour
January 19, 2024 at 10:27 am
unlike the pansy-ass way that Shanahan left his starters on the bench for game 17 though, right?
totally different.
beerandbrats
January 19, 2024 at 11:36 am
Yes, BNS, totally different. You are comparing apples to oranges.
My mother always said, if you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all.
Stop disparaging Packer fans and their comments.
Bitternotsour
January 19, 2024 at 12:45 pm
because calling the packers "pansy ass" is a totally fan-like thing to say. Also, you mistake mockery for disparagement. I'm mocking you.
beerandbrats
January 19, 2024 at 05:01 pm
What is your problem Bitternotsour? Are you suffering from ugly yellow toenail fungus?
DoubleJ
January 19, 2024 at 08:45 am
The game was 48-16 with 6 minutes left in the game. KC was quoted as saying they knew the Packers were going to win in the 2nd quarter and that is when they started to scout the Packers.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 19, 2024 at 09:31 am
Not KC, SF.
Hopefully our coaches worked every bit as hard, preparing for this game ...
DoubleJ
January 19, 2024 at 09:36 am
I meant Kyle Shanahan but for some reason I typed KC instead of KS.
Guam
January 19, 2024 at 07:53 am
I think this game is about the O-line and Joe Barry.
The O-line has to open a few holes in the running game and give Love some time in the pocket. No running game and Love running for his life will not produce a win.
And Joe Barry can NOT put his soft zone out there every play. Shanahan is too good a coach and his players too good not to take full advantage of a predictable defense. Barry will have to mix two and three man DLs with press man and a variety of zones to keep Purdy guessing.
I think the O-line can do their job. I am not so confident about Barry.
Razer
January 19, 2024 at 08:23 am
...I think this game is about the O-line and Joe Barry...
I agree. I find it interesting that on offense we focus on the players and on defense we zero-in on the coordinator. The whole putting the players in a position to succeed is evident here. Matt LaFleur and the offensive coaches have their group organized and playing well together. Until recently, Joe Barry had the scheme and player utilization sub optimal. Hopefully, he gets it right on Saturday.
T7Steve
January 19, 2024 at 08:23 am
Thank you. I knew someone would point out what's real. I think I didn't even have my weekly trenches rant.
It all revolves around the line of scrimmage. Alway has. Always will.
Play mean and nasty. Don't let them push you around.
Only way to win a game. No matter what level. Makes a good QB, WRs and RBs great. Makes DBs and LBs look like All Pros.
Razer
January 19, 2024 at 08:57 am
...It all revolves around the line of scrimmage. Always has. Always will.
Play mean and nasty. Don't let them push you around...
Key to victory in a nutshell. I will add "Don't let them push you around...do the pushing".
SicSemperTyrannis
January 19, 2024 at 09:34 am
This is where SF has consistently beaten GB, for many years. It's looked like they won in the weight room. MLF believes scheme can fix anything? He has his chance to have some answers ...
GPG!
jont
January 19, 2024 at 08:20 am
SF has easily the best roster in the NFL. It's not just McCaffrey but also Deebo, Kittle, and a number of other less flashy but just as strong players. When you're paying your QB *only* $870,000 a year you've got about $30 million to spread around the roster. A million bucks on top of a good offer wins in a bidding war for a good free agent; they picked up 13 veteran free agents last summer (https://www.49ers.com/news/49ers-2023-roster-breakdown-free-agents-train...).
Purdy, BTW, will enter year four of a five year rookie deal next season and is scheduled to make $1.1 mil (plus 1 to 3 in incentives). Presumably SF will re-work it, and then it's likely good-bye to two of the three names above.
Razer
January 19, 2024 at 08:41 am
Consider the Packers in light of your post. Having a star QB doesn't leave a lot of room for the rest of the roster. If we weren't paying for Rodgers to rehab his achilles, we could have added some veteran help in the trenches or kept a Rasul Douglas. Keeping your roster young and cheap is one way to play the game in the modern NFL. You better draft well if you are going to turn the team over for youth.
DoubleJ
January 19, 2024 at 08:54 am
"Purdy, BTW, will enter year four of a five year rookie deal next season and is scheduled to make $1.1 mil (plus 1 to 3 in incentives). Presumably SF will re-work it, and then it's likely good-bye to two of the three names above."
That is incorrect. Purdy was drafted in 2022 which means he will be in year 3 of his contract. For rookie contracts all players drafted in R1 get 4 year deals with a 5th year option and players drafted in R2-R7 get 4 year deals only. Rookies cannot get a new contract until after their 3rd full season. https://ninernoise.com/posts/how-nfl-rookie-contracts-work
Therefore the 49ers are going to get 2 more years of super cheap salary cap from Purdy. However, they are going to have a lot of other salary cap issues next year and 2025.
Coldworld
January 19, 2024 at 10:53 am
If Purdy wins and continues to shine he won’t be on his rookie contract that long with his stats. He’s going to command a big pay rise over his tiny 7th round deal.
DoubleJ
January 19, 2024 at 12:09 pm
The 49ers can just make an extension so they don't add much to his cap hit in 2025 (final year of his rookie contract).
Coldworld
January 19, 2024 at 04:21 pm
Yes, it’s true that, like Love, he is young enough at a prime position to kick the cap forward (as we did with Rodgers through the teens), but even then he’s going to get a big jump from a 7th round rookie deal in cap terms, just not as much as in his pocket.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 19, 2024 at 10:23 am
That shows 14 O linemen for SF, total. Only two people on their injury report, one questionable, one out. We have 4 questionable, including our punter with a sudden illness. 16 with recent injuries limiting practice.
RCPackerFan
January 19, 2024 at 08:21 am
"Bottom line: In every game the Niners lost this season, they were held to 20 points or less. They averaged 33.4 in their 12 wins, holding their opponents to less than 20 points in 10 of them. "
I mentioned this the other day. The niners are not an unbeatable team. They are not this juggernaut that can't be beat. They are very good don't get me wrong. They are the favorites for a reason. But they can be beat.
I think to win this game it needs to been a similar type of game that happened in Dallas. That we started fast and built an early lead. Got a few game changing turnovers.
For defense I think pressure is going to be huge. We need to play in the 49ers backfield. They will get yards and chunk yards, but if we can limit them in the redzone, that will be huge.
Regardless of what happens, this season was absolutely a success. I have enjoyed watching our young team develop the way they have. I am excited for tomorrow night!
Go Pack Go!
T7Steve
January 19, 2024 at 08:28 am
The Packers have been good defending in the red zone until they get inside the 5. They just need sacks and turnovers before the 9ers get there.
I can live trading TDs for FGs.
RCPackerFan
January 19, 2024 at 09:07 am
Oh absolutely!
Barry needs to have an aggressive mindset. Can't allow one big play to happen to start playing off and prevent.
porupack
January 19, 2024 at 08:35 am
Well, the 49ers are a juggernaut, but they can be beat. How many teams other than 72 dolphins had a perfect season and won the superbowl. Lot of juggernauts fell when expectations superceded grit and pluck.
RCPackerFan
January 19, 2024 at 09:33 am
Losing 3 games in a row to the Browns, Vikings and Bengals, and then losing 33-19 to the Ravens at home to me doesn't make them a juggernaut.
Against the Ravens, they were losing 33-12, and 2 of those points came from a safety. So the starting offense put up 10 points against the Ravens.
I didn't watch the game so I'm just looking at the box score of it, but basically what looks like happened is Purdy threw 4 interceptions, and that was the biggest difference in the game. They put up yards, but the turnovers killed them.
McCaffrey had 103 yards rushing and 28 receiving. Kittle had 126 yards, and Aiyuk had 113.
Against the Browns Purdy threw 1 interception. Against the Vikings and Bengals Purdy threw 2 Interceptions in each game.
Purdy threw 11 interceptions this year. Every game (3 games) that he threw multiple interceptions in they lost.
No team is going to be perfect. But to be a juggernaut I don't think a team can lose by 2 TD's multiple times, especially as a veteran team like they are.
Coldworld
January 19, 2024 at 11:29 am
They were without Deebo and McCaffrey and a few others. That certainly changed them. They are healthy now. Very few teams are consistently lucky enough to be consistently healthy.
jannesbjornson
January 19, 2024 at 11:13 am
Giants 41, Queens ZERO in the 2000 NFCCH game.
Razer
January 19, 2024 at 08:31 am
There will be many factors in a Packer win but I am going with the O-line and our run game. If we can win that LOS and get Aaron Jones gashing into the secondary our offense will win this game. I am hoping our young TEs are dialed-in and that Emanuel Wilson breaks one in relief of Jones. It is a big ask of this O-line given the talent and depth of the 49er linemen and LBers. The bad weather may be our friend on Saturday.
bossofallbosses
January 19, 2024 at 08:46 am
Yep, Jones is leading the NFL over last 4 games at 5.7 YPC, SF is last in the NFL in EPA per play vs zone blocking (seen that vs Vikes and Bengals and they got beat in both those games). Pack are a zone run blocking team. I just hope they keep feeding Jones and don't start splitting time Dillon.
T7Steve
January 19, 2024 at 09:15 am
Even if Dillon doesn't get any yards (if he plays) he will bash and tire the D front and LBs for a rested Jone and Wilson to take advantage of.
Houndog
January 19, 2024 at 08:31 am
Good morning,
Like so many others have already said, my biggest fears lie with the defense for multiple reasons.
If they stink it up the Pack might get slaughtered, if they play well Barry might keep his job, which I see as a Lose-Lose!
If our O-line can play well, allowing Jones to do his thing, I think the offense has proven they can score with the best of them. Contrary to my thoughts earlier this season, I now have a lot of faith in Jordan Love, it even gives the crow I've been eating some flavor. He's definitely won me over, and I am extremely happy for that (applause for Gutey).
I could go on but I think its simple, the Packers need a near perfect game to win it. Lets hope they have that in them.
T7Steve
January 19, 2024 at 08:38 am
Yes. They can't afford to leave points on the field. Like the difference between the Bears game and the game in Dallas.
The Bears D matches up well to the 9ers, now that I think about it. Hummm....
bossofallbosses
January 19, 2024 at 08:50 am
Joe Berry's defense held the niners to 3 points (until the final seconds in 2022. Over the last 3 games they've relinquished 7.5 ppg (minus garbage time and the ref assisted TD at the end of the half vs dal and not including the muffed punt TD). Defense has changed to more man press coveerage more blitzes stunts and disguising their defensive schemes. Packers are #4 in the NFL in man coverage per EPA per play. Pack run D relinquished 3.6 YPC over the last 4 games.
Purdy is bad in the rain due to his tiny baby hands and if a team has a lead on them at half. He struggles vs pass rush up the middle, he forces passes in the middle of the field and has many tipped balls at the line because he's short and has a loq release.
I got the pack 45 sf 17 (one late garbage time td for sf).
Houndog
January 19, 2024 at 09:30 am
Hi Boss,
About all I can say about all your impressive statistics is: The Packers weren't playing 'today's' 49ers in any of the games you speak of. Two years ago doesn't mean much.
And, other than last week, none of those games were Play-off games.
Its a different world now!
Purdy's "Small hands" are the same size as one Patrick Mahomes.
I'd love to see your 45-17 prediction, and we might, but as long as Joe Barry is around it's much more likely to be in reverse, 17-45!
SicSemperTyrannis
January 19, 2024 at 10:32 am
Or 45-44. He does like to make the end a nail biter.
Bitternotsour
January 19, 2024 at 10:33 am
Why not. 45-17 has a nice ring to it. If anyone can predict what the SF offense will be up to it will be MLF. We have as good of a shot as anyone still playing, why not us.
beerandbrats
January 19, 2024 at 09:05 am
I've been eating some of that flavored crow myself Houndog! What a wild ride this year has been! Go Pack!
Houndog
January 19, 2024 at 09:35 am
beerandbrats,
Yeah, its been crazy, hasn't it!
Just hoping for a reasonable game against the 9ers, a win would be like Christmas all over again.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 19, 2024 at 10:30 am
I don't care how well GB D plays, there's no excuse to give JB a new contract. He's proven himself to be a liar, not allowing his players to be aggressive as he promised, and nearly lost the locker room in the process.
Doing his job only when his neck is on the chopping block does not earn accolades. Hopefully he works his butt off this week just to build a resume for his next job.
porupack
January 19, 2024 at 08:41 am
This season is only a success if the team improves each week, fights to the bitter end with a damn good plan and relentless effort. Only then should we be satisfied with a loss this week. The youth factor can be an advantage, and it can be a disadvantage. The coaching staff have a huge role to make it an advantage. Experience can keep heads cool when things aren't going well. The coaches have to get in those kids' heads, and have no deer-in-headlights kind of being overwhelmed by the Juggernaut team and the environment. The coaches will play the x-factor, they'll be able to multiple talent or divide it. No excuses that the season was a success. Its only as good as the next game being played.
Swisch
January 19, 2024 at 10:04 am
In accord with your comment, porupack, I'm uncomfortable with calling the season a success until after the season.
The defending NFC champion Eagles were 10-1 at one point in this season, and then went pfft.
Last season, the upstart Jaguars won a playoff came with a stunning comeback against the Chargers; this season, the Jaguars struggled down the stretch to miss the playoffs (and the Chargers didn't even contend).
The Cowboys feel a lot different about their season after finishing it last week with a debacle against the Packers.
***
I think I get what people are saying about this season already being a success, and am somewhat in agreement with them, but don't want our coaches and players allowing that sentiment to allow them to let up at all for this upcoming challenge against the 49ers.
It's extremely important for the Packers to go all out on Saturday night for the win, playing hard and smart all the way through. Not too high or too low at any point during the game.
Maybe we can do to the 49ers what they did to us a couple of seasons ago.
In any case, there are no guarantees for tomorrow, so don't let this possibly rare opportunity in the spotlight pass by without full attention and maximum effort.
Then, no regrets.
LeotisHarris
January 19, 2024 at 08:43 am
I'm glad they scheduled this one for Saturday night. Bring on Brock and his slippery little baby hands and let's play some football. I can't wait no mo.
bossofallbosses
January 19, 2024 at 08:43 am
1.) Aaron Jones over the last 4 games of the season averages more yards per carry (5.7 YPC) than any other RB in the NFL over their last 4 games with over 40+ carries total.
2.) Packers undefeated 20+ rushes to A Jones
3.) 49ers are the last place team in EPA per play vs zone runs
4.) Packers are # 1 passing offense in EPA per play vs zone coverage
5.) 49ers run Zone coverage 80% of the time
6.) Packers in zone coverage on defense they’re bottom 10 in EPA per play
7.) Packers in man coverage they’re 4th in EPA per play
8.) 49ers allowed teams top RB’s with heave run zone blocking schemes to average 5.2 YPA. This includes the game vs Minnesota without Justin Jefferson and the Bengals who beat them by 14 points.
9.) Purdy in games where they’re tied or trailing at half has 2 passing TD’s to 8 int’s.
Overall the 49ers are front runners and if you’re tied or winning at half there’s a high percentage chance that team is going to beat the 49ers. The only team the 49ers beat that was tied or beating them at half was the Rams in the second game of the year. Rams had no Cooper Cupp and they struggled in the first half of the season but were great in the second half.
Packers defense has changed after the Panthers game to more man, press, stunts, blitzes and overall more aggressive and use methods to disguise their defense and confuse the opposing QB’s. MLF after the Panthers game took more of a role in the defensive game plan and ensured Joe Berry kept to that strategy.
I called the GB vs dal game 48 to 10 (subtract garbage time and ref assisted TD at last second of first half and I am on the money).
GB 45 SF 17 (one garbage time TD by SF is possible).
Look out for the qheather as Purdy has tiny baby hands and struggled in the rain vs Clev. After GB has the lead and the rain increases in the second half look for many sacks, fumbles, int's from Purdy.
SicSemperTyrannis
January 19, 2024 at 10:38 am
I love your ideas!
"MLF after the Panthers game took more of a role in the defensive game plan and ensured Joe Berry kept to that strategy."
This does make sense. I don't believe JB is behind the turnaround. How do you know that MLF is?
bossofallbosses
January 19, 2024 at 02:39 pm
The reason is because in the press conference after the panthers game he said he's going to focus more on the defensive gameplan. People were scared thinking the offense would slip but the offense got even better. I think he's better than Kyle at game prep and in game play calling and it's been displayed this year after he open up the playbook after the bye and no more Rodgers force feeding Adams, chucking bombs on third and short, not passing to the middle of the field and changing plays whenever he wants to.
mrtundra
January 19, 2024 at 08:52 am
"Whatever happens Saturday is ALL gravy for this season. If the Packers win, they actually have a good shot at the SB (Holy Shit). If they lose I'll be sad but SO PROUD of this team...AND I'll go into 2024 knowing the 49ers will be OURS in 2024 and beyond. Better get it right Shanahan you overrated putz. Because next year your ass will be ours...Hell, it might start Saturday Night!"
100%!!! I could not have said it better, NP! G-R-A-V-Y!!! PACKERS!!! GO PACK, GO!!!
SicSemperTyrannis
January 19, 2024 at 09:00 am
Jonathan:
"in retrospect I think he had to keep things simple and repetitive until his youngsters got the execution right, even at the expense of keeping defenses off balance"
This is what I've seen this season too. MLF was asked in a presser about "taking the training wheels off " He responded that he doesn't even know what that means. Maybe he wasn't being obtuse or stubborn, but the reporter couldn't rephrase the question in any other way and it fell flat.
MLF took the training wheels off, and the additional complexity in the playbook has propelled the offense, and barely in time. They're executing very well, which makes me wonder how they've been practicing! I just hope they can keep that rolling straight through week 1 of next season 🍻
GB D against SF O is the bigger variable, IMHO. As the saying goes, "any given Saturday ..."
porupack
January 19, 2024 at 09:04 am
Loved your writing, Jonathon....some funny stuff in there. Can't even rent a car, bahaha, and that r-e-l-a-x reaction to everyone else around rodgers, wahahahah. Yes, you are right, the pressure is on SF, but it isn't less on the packer unless the coaches make their money and get in the heads of that youthful squad so they play their hearts and pride out like nothing in the season mattered. Whatever happened at Dallas doesn't matter tomorrow, and coaches better get that focus. First things first, get the team off the bus and out there before the first whistle is finished blowing.
The downside of that blowout win at Dallas is that there is less of a surprise factor. Most of the juggernauts which have fallen unexpectedly in playoffs are because of the giant taking the peon for granted. SF will not be taking GB for granted, and they will have spent a lot of time reviewing the tape of that game. The coaches better have some more wrinkles, and I'm going to say the bold and ridiculous, but there better be some of that Dan Campbell gutsy risk taking on 4th down; fake punts. I think special teams will have a say about who wins...and there better be some discipline.....and some unexpected there. MLF just can't play conservative. Get that in those kid's head....and if so, then the youth factor of GB's roster will be an advantage.
The_Baloney_Stops_Here
January 19, 2024 at 09:15 am
Objective #1) Get early lead.
Objective #2) Tee off on Purdy.
Thats how they win. Its how they've won 7 of their last 9 games to even get to this point.
Handsback
January 19, 2024 at 09:27 am
As stated by several posters...the 49ers aren't invincible but have few holes.
Green Bay has enough talent but will take a herculean effort to win against the 49ers. Best thing, win or lose they will understand what it takes to get to the next level. The last few games have given the Packers a mental road map to win against any team.
It will prove valuable in years to come.
Congrats to this year's Packers...job well done.
JMHO
ricky
January 19, 2024 at 09:43 am
Getting pressure on Purdy will be a key point in the game. Here are the stats between pressure and a clean pocket:
Purdy has completed 55.8 percent of his passes for 1,278 yards, 11 touchdowns, and six interceptions while under pressure. When the pocket is kept clean, Purdy's passer rating was an impressive and NFL-leading 125.4.
Rashan Gary in particular has to come alive for this game after being dormant for the last few weeks. I'd ask for Barry to come up with some exotic blitzes, but I try to remain firmly grounded in reality.
LambeauPlain
January 19, 2024 at 10:18 am
Mike Wahl had an observation a few weeks ago that made sense about Gary's technique. He says the 2 point stance creates a wasted second for him at the snap with his feet. Even with the delay, Gary still is able to create pressure with his quickness.
Utilize his sublime speed for a big man with his quickness and Wahl said Gary would earn more sacks with his hand in the dirt. Perhaps Gary should be "firmly grounded" too?
jannesbjornson
January 20, 2024 at 09:20 am
Why would Barry align him to his strength? We've all been advocating a true 4 down lineman front.
LLCHESTY
January 20, 2024 at 11:26 am
Rather than the 5 man front they use now?
I think it's just you that doesn't understand there's really no difference between a 2-4-5 and 4-2-5 that all teams are playing a majority of the time.
NFLfan
January 19, 2024 at 09:46 am
I laughed @ references to clenching sphincters and cleanses-lol. I distinctly remember AR euphorically caught up in the throes of his 12-day cleanse while Davante was twisting in the wind. (And, plotting his escape)
In another vein, to be fair, McCarthy was a big reason Rodgers went rogue and developed his 'I will control this ship' attitude.
Anyway, that was then...
Shanahan is a guy Matt will need to surprise & keep off-balance; he is not a nice guy and Matt will need to access his inner bad guy.
I know it's there-he is a Scorpio, just like J.Love-never underestimate their underlying intensity and grit.
I just hope to God our Defense can deal with the Run, ie., McCaffrey and Deebo.
The_Baloney_Stops_Here
January 19, 2024 at 10:34 am
Rodgers went rogue because hes an egomaniac control freak. Did the same thing after Lafleur was hired.
NFLfan
January 19, 2024 at 12:27 pm
@Baloney-Rodgers went rogue because McCarthy was lazy, arrogant and checked out.
And, GM Thompson was 'unavailable' because he was terminally ill and should have resigned or been fired. There was no one @ the helm for several years.
Rodgers wasn't always an 'egomaniac'
Coldworld
January 19, 2024 at 04:34 pm
MCCarthy wasn’t lazy or checked out. He had a threadbare roster on both sides of the ball thanks to Ball having been subbed in for TT and he was dealing with the death of his brother. MM was stale, but he stood up to Rodgers and kept him in check more than what came after. Something that was a point of contention by then.
Bitternotsour
January 19, 2024 at 05:46 pm
thank you.
NFLfan
January 19, 2024 at 09:17 pm
Why was he fired?
NFLfan
January 19, 2024 at 08:37 pm
I disagree. McCarthy was lazy, missed important pre-game meetings and was ultimately fired.
Rodgers did not become what he later became without that context.
LeotisHarris
January 19, 2024 at 09:33 pm
fangirl, how can we miss you if you won't go away?
Isn't there a nice Jets message board where you can waste bandwidth?
SicSemperTyrannis
January 19, 2024 at 10:51 am
I have seen no evidence of MLF having an inner bad guy. GB sure needs to bring the nasty! McDuffie does. Nixon is getting there. Ja is all 'tude. Valentine does but also commits penalties. If MLF exuded this it could only help. Where it's needed most is in the trenches.
AGNFB!
Packers0808
January 19, 2024 at 11:22 am
I keep reading of 49er blowout. I believe I also heard and read the Cowboys would blow the Pack out. No matter what anyone says why can't it AGAIN be a Packer blow out? That is as said, why they play the game. Think tomorrow holds some Packer surprises, all good ones! This team with out the heavy hand of the Diva messing with the way he wants to play and not the system.
NFLfan
January 19, 2024 at 12:23 pm
Because Shanahan has had 'advanced warning' and is smarter than Joe Barry.
I think Dallas underestimated GB.
Ferrari-Driver
January 19, 2024 at 12:31 pm
I'm anxious for the game tonight. I hope it doesn't come down to a win or lose field goal with Carlson having to make a 45 kick from the 45. I don't think my old heart could withstand that.
NFLfan
January 19, 2024 at 12:32 pm
Green Bay doesn't have Fred Warner, Greenlaw, Bosa, Trent William's level of competence and nastiness. Green Bay needs to bring in guys who are dogs and can (usually) do it the right way.
And, for God's sake we can't let MLF get sentimental and retain Barry. I also think Gute needs help assessing defensive players.
GB needs a wholesale re-evaluation of what a good D is.
bossofallbosses
January 19, 2024 at 02:41 pm
Bosa is a stat padder not worth his bag, Qarner has slowed down tremendously, Williams is great but aging and not that dude anymore but still very good.
Thegreatreynoldo
January 19, 2024 at 04:18 pm
The 2020 playcaller was a genius. 509 points
The 2021 playcaller was really good. 450 pts (26.7/gm)
The 2022 playcaller is an orphan/anonymous.
Starrbrite
January 19, 2024 at 10:38 pm
I don’t at all believe this will be a blowout. I predict a bewildered look on the 9’rs sidelines when when we run, pass, and control the time of possession.
I have watched the 9’rs several times and frankly, several bad teams have given their defense trouble.
It’s the offense —specifically mccaffery, who we must control—which we are gonna do—damn the torpedoes.
Go Packers!!!