Confessions of a Polluted Mindset - Bye to the Niners
The Weekly Packers Brain Drain from Jersey Al.
By JerseyAl
So here we are. We're going from the bye to the Niners (see what I did...). Anyway, I would be lying if I didn't say the 49ers were fourth on the list of our four possible opponents I wanted to face if I had a choice. Their combination of strong running game and pass rush are the two things that could potentially "cut in" and disrupt the Packers' "Last Dance." That doesn't mean I think this is what will happen, just that I'm just slightly less confident of a Packers win than I would be otherwise.
Jimmy G - The narrative so far this week has been, don't worry, Jimmy G will throw a couple of interceptions and all will be fine. Those folks have obviously forgotten the NFC Championship game two years ago when Jimmy G threw the ball a total of 8 times. Expect the Niners to take a similar approach Saturday night.
Physical and fast - that's what the 49ers are. Overall team speed is very high, and even their skill position players are physical. I've been very impressed by Elijah Mitchell - he reminds me of a more physical Aaron Jones. He can find the holes, blast through them and break tackles at every level - he does not go down easily. You've all seen Deebo Samuel. His combination of speed, agility and strength is pretty rare.
Be solid - The two main tasks for the Packers' defense will be to stay disciplined in their gap responsibilites and be extra sure with their tackling. The first defender there has to at least slow down the ball carrier enough to allow reinforcements to arrive. Keep Campbell clean and let him rack up the tackles.
Intimidating - The 49ers' pass rush can be intimidating when they get rolling, and with only the front four rushing, whch has historically been the best approach against Rodgers. Having Bosa or not is a big question mark for the Niners, but regardless, they can be overpowering. Having Myers and Bakhtiari back, two players that can handle power rushers is a big plus for the Packers.
Do like they did the Rams - If Rodgers is focused on getting the ball out quickly and spreading it around like he did agianst the Rams (completed passes to 8 different receivers), and they stay committed to the run (30 rushing attempts against the Rams), they will score plenty of points.
Cowboys final play - My initial reaction, like most people's, was "What the hell are they doing?" Thinking about it some more, while it's certainly out of the box thinking, it's not that crazy. McCarthy says they did it because the Rams were guarding the sidelines and they would rather have one shot at the end zone from inside the 30 than trying a hail mary or two. I can buy that.
Spotting the ball - So much controversy and discussion of this on twitter. Packers backup QB Kurt Benkert weighed in, claiming that the center can spot the ball himself and the ref just needs to touch it. That' of course, couldn't be true, because what that means is the center can spot the ball wherever he pleases. Kurt also claimed that the referee did not move the ball back at all, which the video clearly shows he did. 0-2, Kurt.
But that's like saying the center can spot the ball wherever he wants. If the center doesn't put the ball on the correct yard line, the ref has to correct that. What was Romo was saying was give the ball to the ref so he can spot it and you avoid what happened.
— Jersey Al - GBP (@JerseyAlGBP) January 17, 2022
Watching the replay, the ref was about to move the ball back a yard then didn’t, he put the ball in the same place it was before… therefore should have just touched the ball.
If he wanted to move it back a yard, then move it back a yard and leave it there.
One or the other. 🤷🏻♂️
— Kurt Benkert (@KurtBenkert) January 17, 2022
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__________________________
"Jersey Al" Bracco is the Editor-In-Chief, part owner and wearer of many hats for CheeseheadTV.com and PackersTalk.com. He is also a recovering Mason Crosby truther. Follow Al on twitter at @JerseyalGBP.
__________________________
Comments (105)
NickPerry
January 19, 2022 at 06:52 am
Maybe I'm crazy but I'm not as concerned about the 49ers as most. THIS team is different from the 2019 team who got run all over AT San Francisco. for one, we actually have a ILB who is a difference maker. I trust Campbell completely for two reasons. First and foremost he's been doing it ALL season. Secondly but just as important to some, he's the 2nd ranked ILB according to PFF. He's the #2 ranked ILB for the season, the top ranked ILB left in the playoffs, with an overall grade of 84.3. The next closest is Lavante David at 75.1 and Fred Warner is a distant 3rd at 70.9 and is now wounded with an ankle injury. Campbell makes a HUGE difference.
My hope is Rodgers plays EXACTLY like he did against the Rams. Spread the ball around, BUT make sure Davante Adams is involved early and often. Adams is a 49er KILLER, someone they haven't had an answer for. Get the ball out quickly, don't let them have a chance to get near Rodgers. Just because DB is back, doesn't mean you can hold the damn ball 12. PLEASE, no hero ball.
Run the ball with Dillon and use Jones mostly in the passing game. POUND Dillon into that defense. At 1 degrees with a windchill probably below zero, I'm thinking a large does of Dillon, punching them in the mouth with THEIR game will go a long way Saturday night. Once they soften up a bit with AJ bowling the over, a nice mix of Jones and his speed will rip their heart out!
This is going to be fun...Don't worry Packers Fans...We GOT this!
#12 Quarters to go!!!
blacke00
January 19, 2022 at 07:25 am
I would be going to the "hurry up" offense very often. The 49ers like to "switch out" all 4 lineman at one time....wear out the "D" line. It will payoff later in the game.
murf7777
January 19, 2022 at 09:55 am
I think you might see a bit of that and your point is well taken. But, that just isn’t Arod’s style, he prefers to take his time and read the D and find the mismatches by determining the D’s scheme on that play.
Ian
January 19, 2022 at 12:26 pm
I think that is why "hurry up" was in quotes. If you get to the line quickly, they still cannot sub out due to risk of too many men; Rodgers can take his time once at the line.
LambeauPlain
January 19, 2022 at 12:28 pm
Actually Rodgers "taking his time" has steadily changed over the season. Now he is getting the ball out of his hands in less than 3 seconds on average. This is what Matt wants to do, and compliment the potent infantry of AJ and AJD....they make the play action go. Rodgers has been so good behind center, faking the handoff and zipping it to a receiver.
This is how they can neutralize the strength of the Niners....their front 4. Scary group.
murf7777
January 19, 2022 at 03:28 pm
You're right Rodgers is getting it out of hands quicker, but that wasn't the point. We were talking about hurry up offense where you use less time to hike the ball.
RCPackerFan
January 19, 2022 at 08:35 am
"Maybe I'm crazy but I'm not as concerned about the 49ers as most. THIS team is different from the 2019 team who got run all over AT San Francisco. "
I feel the same way. We are not the same team. We are a much better team. With much more experienced coaching staff and a QB. 49ers will present some challenges, but our team is so much better then the one in 2019.
Also, don't forget that LaFleur is still pissed at Shanahan. That will make him ultra focused on kicking their ass!
murf7777
January 19, 2022 at 09:52 am
NP….I agree totally about Campbell being a difference maker in stopping the run and closer to the LOS than past ILB’s the Packers have had. That will make a Hugh difference in this game. Although PFF is a decent reference more importantly is that his peers voted him to the 1st team All-Pro which really shows his true value.
Tundraboy
January 19, 2022 at 06:06 pm
Have to save this to read at game time. You're right we have every reason to be very confident. I know the past can't be ignored, last year was a perfect example. But we are much improved over any of the rosters we depended on Rodgers to carry us entirely.
Play the game we are capable of and it will be no contest. GPG!
Johnblood27
January 19, 2022 at 07:08 am
McCarthy and clock management... no excuses... stupid playcall and poor execution. MM to a tee. You asked for it Dallas, live with it!
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
January 19, 2022 at 08:50 am
You go Mr. Blood....and I 100% agree! 😃
RichBeckman
January 19, 2022 at 10:37 am
I guess the playcall was stupid. But not because the concept is all that dumb, but because the play had clearly not been practiced, possibly ever. The QB cannot run until he is tackled, he has to have an eye on the clock and go down at, what? 10 seconds?, and everyone else has to understand to line up, but allow space for the ref to do his job.
I see that McCarthy said they practiced the play every week!! If that's true, I would have been ashamed to admit it.
Starrbrite
January 19, 2022 at 03:22 pm
That’s right Rich. Rams isn’t supposed to run as far as he can (dumba$$). Get down in time for another play.
Starrbrite
January 19, 2022 at 03:24 pm
I meant Dak—not rams -Geesh!
jannesbjornson
January 19, 2022 at 05:46 pm
NO Timeouts remaining can put a crimp in that play call.
Thegreatreynoldo
January 19, 2022 at 07:16 am
Teams that have held SF to 18 points of less:
Philly (11 - L)
ARI (10 - L)
IND (18 - L)
ARI: (17 - L)
TN: (17 - L)
Those teams have good defenses (6th, 9th, 11th, with only Philly a little below average at 18th). GB is 14th but the rankings make it seem worse than it is: GB is at 21.8 and SF (10th) is at 21.5 pts/game.
SF has been okay offensively over the course of the season, but its last games have been 23, 27, 23, 17, and then 31, 26, and 23 against Atlanta, Cincy and Seattle. Pretty good offense but it isn't outstanding. I am not really seeing this offensive surge since they redeployed Deebo into the backfield.
dobber
January 19, 2022 at 09:07 am
"I am not really seeing this offensive surge since they redeployed Deebo into the backfield."
I would argue that they've de-emphasized Kittle in the process of emphasizing Aiyuk and Deebo. They're finding creative ways to not rely too much on a QB who is only average (or a little better) and a rookie QB who isn't ready to play.
jannesbjornson
January 19, 2022 at 06:13 pm
Kittle will be a force in their Game plan, unless he's nursing an injury. The random deep shot to Aiyuk for a strike has to be circled on the white board by Barry. Keep his group at full attention for 60 minutes--let's see if he can pull it off.
dobber
January 19, 2022 at 07:25 am
The Niners are a tough draw. They're exactly the kind of team that gives the Packers fits. They can run the ball and they can attack the middle zones and seams with Kittle. Looking back at their matchup earlier this season, the Packers limited the SF run game and jumped out to a big lead early, but had to white-knuckle it to the finish. Packers need to find a way to play the same kind of game (get out to a big early lead) and then grind their heel on the Niners' throats.
The ball-spot situation in Dallas (no that's not something you take an antibiotic for) has been a point of contention, but it was handled correctly by the refs. Romo seemed to be right on the commentary both in terms of Prescott handing the ball to the ref and when he said that Prescott needed to be aware of where he was on the field--8-10 yards on the run gets you closer and allows your team to line up and clock the ball. I don't know how much teams brief their players on that or even talk about that situation in practice.
JerseyAl
January 19, 2022 at 07:57 am
MM said it's something they worked on in practice.
Razer
January 19, 2022 at 08:16 am
Oh - that explains it. Too funny
dobber
January 19, 2022 at 09:08 am
They must've gotten their pad level wrong.
BradHTX
January 19, 2022 at 09:18 am
Mike McCarthy presser comments: The gift that just keeps on giving. As the title of this particular column illustrates!
Grandfathered
January 19, 2022 at 10:57 am
I think that MM is not being honest claiming to practice that play. Its hard to know in a practice how much time and distance the QB needs/wants, so certainly the QB has to be coached to be aware of that. And someone has to tell the QB to hand the ball to the ref quickly when down. I would be irritated with MM were I a boys fan.
dobber
January 19, 2022 at 12:40 pm
I would not be surprised at all if MM is deflecting blame from a player. Players don't like to be thrown under the bus and appreciate when coaches take the public drilling for it.
But you're right, the coach has to take the heat for the call, but the execution?... that was on #4.
RCPackerFan
January 19, 2022 at 11:00 am
Since they played the 49ers in week 3 a lot has changed. There really isn't anything that we can take away from that game/matchup since its been so long ago. But one thing I think they should take away is how they got out to a big lead and let San Fran come back and take the lead in the 4th. it should be a reminder to keep their foot on the gas and to stay focused.
To note a few differences from the week 3 game to now for the Packers.
-AJ Dillon is a much better RB! He has been down right dominating the 2nd half of the season.
-No Tonyan. This is still a big loss. But quietly Deguara has been more involved.
-OL. That game was Yosh's first start. This game we really don't know who our starting 5 will be, but our depth will be much improved no matter who starts.
-OLB's. They didn't have Z. Also Mercilus wasn't on the roster at that point. Gary has been much improved.
-CB's. They did have Alexander in that game. Stokes also started, but he is a different player now then he was then. Like Mercilus they didn't have Douglas on the roster at that point.
Also that game was in San Fran. The weather was 69 degrees. The projected weather for Saturday is 22 degrees for a high. with chance of snow. Huge difference.
Another side note to consider. San Fran just flew to Dallas and they are coming to GB. That is a lot of hours on a plane on a shorter week. Not that it will mean anything, but it is a bit of a sidenote.
Since'61
January 19, 2022 at 01:34 pm
RC, I agree that there are numerous differences between this game and the game earlier this season.
However, I doubt that the temperature will still be 22 degrees at game time I doubt that the weather will be a significant factor because as of now the forecast is for light winds. Wind is usually a bigger factor than temperature. Now if the temperature drops into single digits it could be an issue for catching the ball and for the kicking game.
This will be SFs 3rd consecutive road game. They won their final regular season game on thread and they went on the road to defeat Dallas with plenty of help from the Cowboys. They are likely well into their road warrior mentality. Therefore I believe that the Packers need to come out and punch the 49ers in the mouth early and establish physical dominance in this game especially on the OL and DL. If the Packers win the LOS they will win this game regardless of the weather or SF's travel schedule. Thanks, Since '61
jannesbjornson
January 19, 2022 at 05:56 pm
La Fleur should realize Dillon is the Featured RB this Game. Use A Jones in the slot, motion him and the screen game. Pound the 9r fronts with Dillon and Taylor. Deguara a prop bet for a big game, maybe Davis will hang on to a ball. This should be a power ball scheme. Rodgers has to run the WCO with effiiciency. Watching the Dallas debacle should cure his mind of any MM-Ball.
flackcatcher
January 19, 2022 at 11:53 am
As you say dobber, that's all on Prescott. As the QB and ball handler he has to know: A) The rules for completing a play. B) Ball placement. McCarthy going to take the hit because he's the HC. The other factor was how this game was called by the game officials. Not playoff level at all. I don't know if they were worried about the game getting out of control, but the number of ticky-tack calls disrupted the game flow on both teams.
dobber
January 19, 2022 at 12:41 pm
I should've read your post before posting above. Definitely agree.
porupack
January 19, 2022 at 07:34 am
I agree Al. 49ers are tough with a very strong Oline in the run game particularly. They made Dallas D look inept. Micah Parsons, where did he go? I would not underestimate JimmyG. Just when people do, he is capable enough if GB so gameplans against the run, and neglects Jimmy or any starting QB to hit wide open receivers. And SF has receivers that can make a mediocre QB look pretty good. GB has to play complete and complementary Defense.
Fully agree. Packers have to get the ball out quickly especially at the beginning of the game, maybe even some hurry up....so tire out the pass rushers. Maybe after second drive they can pace it down a bit.
Fully agree, spread the ball.
When starting to establish the offense and run game, there will be short yardage runs initially..resulting in plenty of 3rd downs. GB has to convert these early on, and use some of the trickery they have been hiding all year!! No punts in the 1st Q, especially. Its time for a dominant win like LA and Bucs, if GB wants to make a game of the conference championship. Either dominate, or complain about the refs and clock management (I hate the cowboys).
GregC
January 19, 2022 at 07:40 am
The entire Cowboy-49ers game had the feel of Mike McCarthy overthinking things and confusing his own players. He even confused the refs by keeping the punt team on the field after the successful fake punt. The Cowboys came out tight and McCarthy's strategies mostly backfired. He was a good coach for awhile, but I'm thankful that he's no longer coaching the Packers.
Leatherhead
January 19, 2022 at 07:40 am
Rodgers will lead us to victory or it’ll be his final game as a Packer. It’s on him. He has a very good team around him and he’s at home.
Razer
January 19, 2022 at 07:58 am
I agree that a Rodgers loss will lead to a trade and an unfortunate end to a great Packer career. While our fortunes are on his back, he needs to use the lessons of past playoff losses if we are to advance. He has a great ground game and tight ends who could rewrite the typical script of playoffs past.
Razer
January 19, 2022 at 08:18 am
Sorry posted comments to the wrong thread.
Razer
January 19, 2022 at 08:18 am
So true and now we pay the price. The punt team thing was so strange and a great example of complicating the game. The Cowboys run game reminded me of the Packers backfield when McCarthy was our coach - unused. They have way too many weapons to not put up winning numbers.
Razer
January 19, 2022 at 08:21 am
This comment was intended for GregC but the website continues to post it one entry below. Mike McCarthy must have designed the site :o)
dobber
January 19, 2022 at 09:12 am
They'll take it back to practice and get it fixed.
Razer
January 19, 2022 at 09:30 am
LOL
Since'61
January 19, 2022 at 01:12 pm
After they review the tape! Thanks, Since '61
Tundraboy
January 19, 2022 at 10:47 am
Tend to agree. If at this point he isn't sufficiently fired up and in turn doesn't have everyone else chomping at the bit to play a complete physical game I don't know what to think anymore.
So much to be gained that I just can not see them squandering this opportunity to exact revenge, and to take that first step to the title. Only question I have is will MLF and the team be ready to step up.
jannesbjornson
January 19, 2022 at 06:23 pm
We'll see who the Leaders are....
Starrbrite
January 19, 2022 at 03:32 pm
Agree LH. If we lose (don’t see us losing), ARod is gone.
If we win the SB however, I believe ARod stays and we kick the cap down the road for another year or two.
Razer
January 19, 2022 at 07:45 am
Yeah, the team that I didn't want to see - is the team that we will face. Of course, we will face both the 49ers and the Bucs, both physical, power teams. These teams bring a strong 4 man rush, great LB play, very good O-lines, good run games, team speed and, our kryptonite, tight ends. So now we see if we can win in the trenches and impose our will. We have the tools.
My keys:
Fast start - force the 49ers to throw the ball
Establish the ground game and keep their D-line on their heals
Don't get out coached. Keep it simple and fast
Cowboys - ran out the clock on their own comeback. Dumb. Didn't deserve to win this game just based on the sheer weight of their penalties and mistakes. If Kellen Moore gets a HC job I hope that it is in the NFC North.
jurp
January 19, 2022 at 08:48 am
If we beat the 9ers I think we get the Rams, not the Bucs. No analysis behind this, just a gut feeling.
dobber
January 19, 2022 at 09:13 am
The Rams handled AZ the other night, but was anyone really impressed by them?
AZ just was not good.
jont
January 19, 2022 at 09:16 am
Perhaps an obvious point, but it is important to get off to a fast start. 5 of the 6 wildcard winners held the lead at the start of the second quarter, and the 6th got the first score five minutes into the 2nd quarter.
A closer look shows the winners' strong starts were by their defenses. The losers of those games scored only 3 points combined in the 1st quarters.
That the Packers were outscored in 1st quarters this year 84-51 is my only real concern about this game. I think the Packers are the better team and should be confident and well prepared, but I'll feel better after a couple defensive stops.
jannesbjornson
January 19, 2022 at 06:27 pm
Follow Holmgren's plan for the quick strikes. Let your Stars shine and use your Fullback.
Lphill
January 19, 2022 at 07:56 am
Barry needs to play a five man front all game Jimmy G is not a threat to throw deep, I wanted the 49 ers and then the Bucs and to beat both to get to the Super Bowl .
PeteK
January 19, 2022 at 08:12 am
LP, you might be right, as Jimmy G's hand and shoulder are a bit banged up. No cheapies beat the best.
dobber
January 19, 2022 at 09:21 am
Garoppolo completed 68.3% of his passes and averaged 8.6 ypa, and 8.6 air yards per attempt.
For comparison, ARod was 68.9% and 7.8 ypa, and 7.6 air yards per attempt.
Now, I agree that SF is a more catch-and-run offense than the Packers, but to say they don't throw the ball downfield--at least compared to GB--isn't quite right over the course of the year.
PeteK
January 19, 2022 at 09:46 am
I was referencing his most recent game (64% and 6.9), and his injuries which might hamper his abilities.
croatpackfan
January 19, 2022 at 09:57 am
You forgot that 49ers receivers are the 1st in the league with YAC, what means that Garoppolo throw short and some middle distance throws that become long ones by YAC. That is why he has 8.6 ypa and 8.6 aya. It is not his merit or he is credited with abilities of his WR and TE.
PeteK
January 19, 2022 at 04:39 pm
Yes, Romo pointed that out. I'm sure glad Douglas is out there tackling and not King.
jannesbjornson
January 19, 2022 at 06:29 pm
Brandon Aiyuk is a 4.3 guy with an acrobatic skill set. If Lynch didn't poach him , he would be in the Packer's lineup. Best be prepared for this guy.
LambeauPlain
January 19, 2022 at 12:52 pm
Lp, I agree a 5 man front...straight up 3-4, can work with the reinforcements of Z, Mercillus, and Alexander the Great rejoining the D.
Having the back end covered by a rotation Alexander, Stokes, Douglas, Amos and Savage can help the front rotation of Kenny, Lowry, Keke, P & Z Smith, Gary, Mercillus, Campbell and Barnes...with Amos playing some hybrid. I hope Barry has his tool box supplied with plays utilizing Z, P, and Gary on the field with one of them playing DE.
Jimmy G is very average, below average under pressure. Plus it gets an extra hat on the potent run game.
jannesbjornson
January 19, 2022 at 06:33 pm
Keke, no mas.
Starrbrite
January 19, 2022 at 03:33 pm
Yes LP, same choices for me.
RCPackerFan
January 19, 2022 at 07:59 am
Out of the opponents that they could have played, the Niners will provide a strong challenge. IF they stay in the game and can keep running the ball they are extremely dangerous. I wouldn't be surprised if Shannahan doesn't try to have a Mostert 2.0 type of game with running a lot with Samual and Mitchell.
Jimmy G -
My question is Jimmy G even going to be the QB? He is very hurt. Do they make a surprise move and go with Lance?
Physical and fast -
49ers are very physical and fast on both sides of the ball. It will be very important to control the LOS from the very beginning of this game. Win the LOS, win the game!
Be solid -
Clearly the 49ers saw the 2 trick plays against the Lions. Don't be surprised if they come up with more of those types of plays. Being disciplined will be vital for the defense. Simply wrapping up will be crucial. Can't go in expecting to put a shoulder into Samual and expecting him to go do. It just won't happen.
Intimidating -
49ers can get after the QB. This is why the game plan, and scheming will be very important in this game. Rodgers can't hold onto the ball. He needs to get the ball out fast! Also more running the ball. If he is holding onto the ball a lot that is not a good thing. Trust the WR's and get the ball out!
Do like they did the Rams -
(I didn't read this one until after I typed my intimidating piece). But that is basically what I said as well. Get the ball out, and don't always check out of the run game.
Cowboys final play -
I was fine with the idea of that. But the execution was HORRIBLE! they have to slide before 5 seconds to get it set. Dak simply ran to far.
Spotting the ball -
Regardless of whether Benkert was right or not, he is great to follow along with on twitter. Its hard to not root for him.
dobber
January 19, 2022 at 12:47 pm
"My question is Jimmy G even going to be the QB? He is very hurt."
He's practicing and I haven't heard that Lance is taking first-team reps. I think that signals that he's at least going to start.
Coldworld
January 19, 2022 at 08:30 am
The recipe is pretty simple. Play D to stop the run, play tight on receivers. Pound their D line to tire and draw defenders into the box. Don’t expect big yards on the ground early but don’t be deflected. Then it’s Rodgers v Jimmy G.
Razer
January 19, 2022 at 08:43 am
I like it. Smells like 'power' football. We can do - if we choose to do it.
LambeauPlain
January 19, 2022 at 12:59 pm
Curious you got two down votes on this comment. Your recipe is a good one.
Thegreatreynoldo
January 20, 2022 at 03:39 am
CW and I are of one mind on this. I am a pound Dillon, intersperse Jones, some play action, and even some draw plays.
But many can easily disagree. Lots of SF fans are concerned about their secondary holding up. They like their front 4 and for good reason. They like their front 7, and that too is pretty good. Looking at their pass defense, there probably are areas that can be exploited.
Coldworld
January 20, 2022 at 08:51 am
The way to win this game from the box score perspective isn’t to run to daylight up the middle. The pass and perhaps Jones is what likely does the critical damage, but, against this type of team the running of Dillon will not only help time if possession but open spaces for the pass. What we must not do is what we did against the Bucs last year. If we don’t have MVS, they are likely to condense the field vertically. We must do what we can to blunt the rush, buy time and create lateral space. We must learn our lessons.
PeteK
January 19, 2022 at 08:53 am
The additions of Campbell, Gary (can be very stout against the run), and Douglas( a good tackler). We now have the ability to make our opponents feel our physicality.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
January 19, 2022 at 09:01 am
Interesting how many people think the 49's are the worse match up for the Packers. I even have people I know outside of CCTV telling me that. For me it is the Rams who scare me the most as they have talent everywhere with a QB pretty much as good as Rodgers. At the end of the day it doesn't matter who we play. There are no easy teams in the playoffs but all roads go thru Lambeau.
Just Win Baby!
BradHTX
January 19, 2022 at 11:10 am
Dude, did you seriously just say Matt Freakin’ Stafford is “pretty much as good as” Aaron Rodgers?
Dragon5
January 19, 2022 at 09:05 am
As we saw in the NFCCG vs TB, turnovers can be the great equalizer. Keep the pocket clean, protect the ball when contested, and keep those hands/fingers warm. On the defensive side, raise hell! If red zone defense is stiff on both sides, kicking game / conditions could decide the game.
croatpackfan
January 19, 2022 at 10:02 am
Well 3 TO (INT) last NFCCG was not equalizer as I remember. It can be equalizer only if your QB is not concentrated only on one player...
jannesbjornson
January 19, 2022 at 07:30 pm
Or your Star RB doesn't fumble the nut Twice and King play like a fool.
croatpackfan
January 20, 2022 at 03:25 am
Well, we are talking about lost balls, not mistakes. As I remember Packers won TO battle, but still lost the game!
Dragon5
January 20, 2022 at 12:36 pm
Your argument is linear, and fails to acknowledge where those TOs occur; TOs in opponents sub 35 yard line is usually money in the bank (pts) versus having to drive the field, perhaps from deep in your own territory.
TarynsEyes
January 19, 2022 at 09:45 am
Fear should not exist in this DoJo.
Fear should not exist in this DoJo.
Fear should not exist in this DoJo.
And yet, it appears it does, with CHTV commenters, at least, even after the great news about being full strength with all the returning players.
Fear exists in this Dojo.
Fear exists in this DoJo.
Fear exists in this DoJo.
I have none because I believe that Rodgers will not leave GB a loser, not for the teams' sake, but his own.
Since'61
January 19, 2022 at 10:02 am
I'm expecting a physical game. The 49ers will be coming to Lambeau with plenty of confidence after their win in Dallas even though the Cowboys beat themselves.
The Packers need to punch them in the mouth early and diminish their confidence.
Run the ball and stop the run are the first keys to this game for the Packers. Sure tackling and getting off the field on 3rd downs will be critical for the Packers defense. Next important key is Red Zone defense. The 49ers are converting 66% of their red zone trips to TDs. Packers defense has not been good for most of the season and Barry needs to have an effective plan for the red zone. The same is true for the Packers offense. They need to improve their red zone performance when they get down there.
As usual the game will be won or lost at the LOS. The Packers need to win the LOS on both sides of the ball. In 2019 the Packers were badly beaten on both sides of the LOS. Fortunately the Packers have become much more physical at the LOS since that game.
Another key will be for the Packers to play with a lead and force the SF offense to be one dimensional. Pressure Garapolo and force mistakes. Win the turnover and field position battles.
The Packers have no excuses; All Gas, No brakes for 60 minutes. Take no prisoners. Go Pack Go! Thanks, Since '61
Starrbrite
January 19, 2022 at 03:37 pm
Well said Since’61.
croatpackfan
January 19, 2022 at 10:28 am
Well, I'm a small optimist for this game. This optimism will be larger if we really get back Z, Mercillus, Jaire and Josh. I do not know why David was out of practice yesterday, but I have confidence in Nyman that he will be able to give AR at least 2.5 sec to throw.
SF are beatable (look at their record and who beat them - Packers, Titans, Colts, 2× Cardinals and 2× Seahawks). They won 10 games and teams they won against with winning record was 2×Rams, Bengals & Eagles. They beat Lions, Bears, Jags, Vikings, Falcons & Texans. So of their 10 wins, 6 came from teams who are 32nd, 31st, 28th, 26th, 22nd, 21st, 1 vs 18th Eagles, 1 vs 9th Bengals and 2 vs 5th Rams. They lost all games but 2 from teams with winning record and 2 loses came from 24th Seahawks.
This short analysis shows that 49ers are built for Rams and Seahawks are built for 49ers. Only wild card here was Bengals, but Bengals have the worst OL among all play-off teams and that was obvious reason why 49ers won vs them. Put only one game, let say Chargers or Miami instead of Falcons and 49ers would not be in the playoffs at all.
Al, I understand your "concern" and I agree, Packers can lose this game only if they beat themselves, as Cowboys did.
Grandfathered
January 19, 2022 at 05:40 pm
Agreed. Also, lets not forget that while the Cowboys beat themselves, SF tried to do the same. They let the clock run down, called a timeout, and then failed to get set on a QB sneak, leading to a punt and a touchback with 32 seconds left. I'm not too worried about SF if they continue those follies.
splitpea1
January 19, 2022 at 11:27 am
Jimmy G--But this isn't the same defense we had two years ago. We can't (at least I'm hoping we can't) get pushed backward on the LOS and let them get away with throwing the ball only 8 times. I don't think SF will be able to get away with this approach at all. Gary has also improved tremendously and we have a solid reinforcement in Mercilus to get after Jimmy.... Have to do a good job clogging up the middle and maybe getting a little penetration, that's for sure.
Dallas-SF: The referee really hustled and did everything he could to give the Cowboys a chance at another play; that being said, I would have tried a Hail Mary first toward either side of the end zone, and if that didn't work and time permitted, a second one to the center of the end zone.
flackcatcher
January 19, 2022 at 12:03 pm
No time, no timeouts and the 49ers were doubling up at the sidelines. The Cowboys called the right play, but their QB blew it by losing situational awareness. The difference between a Rodgers-Brady and a Prescott is clearly seen in how the Cowboys executed it at the end of game.
splitpea1
January 19, 2022 at 12:27 pm
Prescott definitely blew it, that's for sure....I guess it comes down to whether you want a shot at two prayers from the 41, or one more manageable prayer at the 24.
Starrbrite
January 19, 2022 at 03:38 pm
Agree with splitpea.
Ya_tittle
January 19, 2022 at 02:01 pm
I agree. TWO hail marys instead of one. The time was there.
jannesbjornson
January 19, 2022 at 07:37 pm
Amari Cooper and Lamb to high-point the ball and you call the inside draw for the QB. Priceless.
stockholder
January 19, 2022 at 12:24 pm
Confidence shouldn't be high. The 13-4 was Luck. Pure and simple. And now were getting a lot of players back. Yea, Thats a Jack. And true, they do play at Lambeau. But I don't believe the packers are 6 point favorites. Why? 1. The 49ers start fast! 2. The 49ers don’t fear Rodgers in January. 3. They didn’t get to the payoffs with the help of the REFS. 4. A win on the road ends; the Rodgers MVP greatness. 5. That they can do what the packers haven’t been able to do to them. (Recently) And thats to beat them in the play-offs. But Gutey went All-in. The Tar and Feathers is ready. If this team is more then Rodgers. The packers must beat the 49ers.
LambeauPlain
January 19, 2022 at 01:21 pm
There is simply no way an NFL team earns 13 wins with "luck".
Does this mean the Lions earned their 14 losses with "bad luck"? Most of those losses were within one score.
Reminds me of Lindy Infante who said, after his (and last GB season) 4-12 record, that they had 10 plays that could have made them winners had they executed prperly.
stockholder
January 19, 2022 at 02:18 pm
Their not a bad team like Detroit. The, breaks, bounce, tip, who's active, etc. Gave the packers an edge. So the "Catch a Lucky break" has to be part of it.
PeteK
January 19, 2022 at 04:53 pm
Come on Stock, They had major injuries to 4 all pros and a top TE , and still got home field advantage.
jannesbjornson
January 19, 2022 at 07:50 pm
They were thumped two years in a row in the NFC CH Games. They better show up and prove something about themselves.Campbell is the difference maker and Stokes took on the speed guys in the absence of Jaire; otherwise they would have been playing last week. Deebo has to have 2-3 guys nail him every play. If we see the charade of 2019 repeat itself might as well blow it up and move on.
Coldworld
January 20, 2022 at 08:57 am
If this team is not good enough to win this then the cap pretty much ensures it will be time to move on, as we won’t be able to significantly improve this roster with Rodgers. If LaFleur makes the same tactical errors this year as last, we will really have some questions on that end too.
Minniman
January 19, 2022 at 12:42 pm
Al, I don't see the 49ers beating the Packers this week................. I only see the potential for the Packers to beat the Packers this week.
IF,
1) The O-Line lays an absolute EGG in protection
2) Stupid penalties setting them behind the chains (or letting SF off of long downs)
3) ST coverage and protection make poor decisions and get exploited (including trick plays)
4) The Packers D line doesn't set the edge
If the above doesn't happen, then I see the Packers controlling TOP and winning.
ricky
January 19, 2022 at 01:11 pm
What if SF sits Jimmy G. and goes with Trey Lance at QB? Then leans on the run game, including QB draws by Lance? This could cause major problems for the Packers, as it did a few years ago when Kaepernick ran wild over the Packers, making the defense look absolutely silly. Lance could still throw passes, and be told to either slide or run out of bounds if it seemed like he was going to get hit. I'm not the only one who has had this thought: https://www.profootballnetwork.com/jimmy-garoppolo-injury-update-will-tr...
Minniman
January 19, 2022 at 02:57 pm
"What if SF sits Jimmy G. and goes with Trey Lance at QB? "
An interesting point - I'd offer that SF are probably going to initially try and use Jimmy G to game manage their existing weapons and scheme, and see if the Packers have no answer (to their run and TE game).
With forecast low teens weather (0 with wind-chill), starting an untested rookie in a finals game is probably going to be a bigger gamble than Jimmy G.
Looking at this year, the Packers have played well against mobile QB's - so I don't see the RPO upside that such a player brings outweighing the risk of inexperience, inaccuracy and disruption to the play of other weapons.
that's my take anyway, ricky.
PeteK
January 19, 2022 at 05:07 pm
Two examples: Fields makes me feel good, but Huntley makes me worry.
jannesbjornson
January 19, 2022 at 07:52 pm
Let Lance start, Pack by 20.
Since'61
January 19, 2022 at 04:57 pm
Just read that the Packers have released Kingsley Keke! Anyone know what is going on? Thanks, Since ‘61
Grandfathered
January 19, 2022 at 05:46 pm
Maybe concussions and "personal illness". Something more is there, But they might also have needed room on the defense roster and Keke cannot be placed directly on PS before clearing waivers.
Since'61
January 19, 2022 at 07:15 pm
I appreciate the feedback Grandfathered. Hopefully we'll find out assuming that Keke clears waivers.
Thanks, Since '61
Coldworld
January 19, 2022 at 07:24 pm
That’s my guess. He’s had some lingering concussions. It’s not a good sign when these persist. After the last one he’s had an illness. I wouldn’t be shocked if he has doubts or the medical staff does.
fordguy
January 19, 2022 at 07:53 pm
They need 4 roster spots for the the guys coming back from IR so expect more to follow.
Oppy
January 19, 2022 at 04:58 pm
Packers establishing the run game early and maintaining a balanced offense is the key to winning this game.
We all seem to agree SF will likely try to keep the ball out of Rodgers hands by going run heavy and chewing up clock. They've done it before. They'll likely do it again.
What plays right into that hand? Going pass-happy. Quick strike scoring, sending our defense right back out on the field. 3-and-out 'drives' that take no time off the clock at all.
It is time to actually start a game with a commitment to running the ball, and see it continue throughout the entire game. Too often the Packers' stat line looks balanced, but it's often a matter of one run-heavy quarter or a handful of run-heavy drives amidst an otherwise pass-centric offense. We need balance for 60 minutes.
Starrbrite
January 19, 2022 at 07:46 pm
I understand your argument for balance Oppy, and I don’t believe you are saying we need balance for the sake of balance?
IMO, it’s a situational process. Belicheat is the best example; if it takes 55 passes or 55 runs, he’ll do it.
Troy Aikman said it today( and I agreed), that Dallas was so concerned about scheme, they refused to pass to receivers on the edge that had a 10-yd cushion. He said it’s simple common sense, but many teams can’t think past their “scheme”.
This is the only area I believe Brady is better than ARod—he’ll take the check down.
jannesbjornson
January 19, 2022 at 07:58 pm
Follow the plan that doesn't work, yet these dudes get paid 6M per year not to make adjustments on the fly. Not the Best. Not the Brightest.
Difer
January 19, 2022 at 10:05 pm
The 49rs are a fast, physical and well coached team that is red hot going into the Divisional round. In their first meeting, the Packers were fortunate (#12 & Crosby) to score with only 37 seconds left. If the Packers play as well as they can, it should be an entertaining game and a likely win. If not, it will likely be a repeat of 2019 and 2020. Whatever happens, its been a great, if nerve-wracking season. Almost a 30 year run of the Packers as perennial playoff contenders, led by back-to-back HOF QBs.
Ya_tittle
January 20, 2022 at 05:01 pm
Niners haven't been as hot as the media touts say. They were lucky the Cowboys played like fools.
I don't think we will.