5 Big Question for Green Bay Packers in Matchup v. 49ers

Can the Green Bay Packers jump out to a fast start?

Speaking of fast starts, this is going to be another key element to this game for the Green Bay Packers.

For much of the season, the Packers weren’t nearly as effective with their opening script as we had seen in 2019 and 2020, and oftentimes, it put them in early deficits that they had to overcome. Among all NFL teams, Green Bay’s first quarter offense ranked 25th in scoring this season–although ironically, one of the few times they did find success early on was against the 49ers as the Packers jumped out to a 17-0 lead in Week 3.

Obviously, jumping out to a quick lead is a positive for the offense, but as I alluded to in the last question, it will really benefit the Packer defense as well. As the game goes on, playing from behind — especially by two scores — will force San Francisco to rely less on the run game and put the ball in Garoppolo’s hands more often.

With how effective the 49ers’ offense is on their opening script, I would prefer that Green Bay choose to receive the ball if they were to win the coin toss so that they have the opportunity to take the lead early. Although I imagine that is wishful thinking, as we all know how much Matt LaFleur and Aaron Rodgers love the opportunity to double-dip in and out of halftime.