5 Big Questions Revisited from Green Bay Packers v. 49ers
By Paul Bretl
Q: Can the Green Bay Packers slow the 49er rushing attack?
A: Yes
This was a big worry for many entering the game, and as we discussed prior to the matchup, tackling, setting a strong edge, and gap responsibilities were going to be key for this Green Bay Packers defense.
Elijah Mitchell came into the game with 963 rushing yards on 4.7 yards per carry, while Deebo Samuel was averaging 6.3 yards per carry on seven attempts per game since Week 10. But the Green Bay defense was able to hold them to 3.1 and 3.9 yards per carry, respectively. As a team, the 49ers would average just 3.7 yards per rush.
Q: Can the Green Bay Packers jump out to a fast start?
A: Yes, but that was all the offense did
This has not been a Green Bay Packers offense that has been able to get off to fast starts this season. In fact, they finished the regular season ranked 25th in average first-quarter points scored, according to Team Rankings. But against San Francisco, Green Bay put together an incredibly efficient opening drive where they didn’t face a third down, and they found the end zone with ease.
On their next possession, they were moving the ball well once again, but a fumble by Marcedes Lewis would end the drive. Even though the Green Bay defense was able to get a stop and get the ball right back to the offense, that fumble seemed to be a turning point in this game.
From that point on, Matt LaFleur’s play-calling became conservative and bland–there wasn’t any motion, play-action, misdirection, or really anything we’ve seen this offense lean on this season. As for Aaron Rodgers, the quick passing game was forgotten about, and the offensive line had one of their worst performances of the season.