Coming off a huge victory against the Dallas Cowboys in Dallas, the Green Bay Packers have truly hit their stride, as they have successful built upon the momentum, they established in the second half of the regular season. The Wild Card Weekend matchup saw a strong performance from Jordan Love (76 Completion %, 272 yds, 3 TDs, 0 INTs) and star running back Aaron Jones (21 carries, 118 yds, 3 TDs). Green Bay’s receiving was on full display with wide receivers Romeo Doubs and Dontayvion Wicks each recording a TD as well as tight end Luke Musgrave. Coming into the game, their defense was a cause for concern, however the Packers’ defense showed out recording two interceptions, one of which was taken back for a pick-six.
Now, the Packers have set their sights on 1st-seed San Francisco 49ers, who have one of the most potent one-two punches, in the form of their offense and defense, that the league has ever seen. The offense is highlighted by Brock Purdy, who shocked the NFL last season, Deebo Samuel, Brandon Aiyuk, George Kittle, and their best offensive weapon, Christian McCaffrey. The defense is nothing short of great either, which features players such as Fred Warner, Nick Bosa, Dre Greenlaw, and Chase Young, to mention a few.
For the 49ers, a strong performance by the defense putting pressure on the young quarterback in Jordan Love will bring success to the team. However, the biggest factor in deciding this game will be the play of Brock Purdy, particularly which version of Brock Purdy decides to show up to play. If Purdy showcases his talent like he did in matchups such as the away game versus the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 13 or the home game versus the Dallas Cowboys in Week 5, the 49ers will triumph.
However, if Purdy performs like he did during the away matchup in Baltimore against the Ravens during Week 16, Jordan Love and company will have a favorable chance to upset yet another NFC giant. Another performance like this would make the critiques of Brock Purdy even louder, calling him a system quarterback who is only having success due to the best supporting cast in the league, with arguably one of the best coaches in the league in Kyle Shanahan.
Future Implications
The Packers, who are supposed to be in a rebuilding stage centered around Jordan Love, have nothing to lose in this game, no matter the outcome. The youngest team to make the playoffs since 1978, have already exceeded expectations. With the Packers seemingly hitting on a third consecutive star quarterback, all that is left for the team to improve next is building up the defense. In addition, the supporting cast on offense is looking up as well, with receivers such as Romeo Doubs, Christian Watson, and Jayden Reed. This is not to mention the veteran experience of star running back Aaron Jones, and solid play from tight end Luke Musgrave.
For the 49ers, the pressure is building up. They have been able to consistently be competitive in the league for the last number of years and have, this year, what looks to be their best team yet. Last season, they were able to strike gold with Brock Purdy who has been playing on an All-Pro level and added the superstar running back in McCaffrey. This year, they have had time to build team chemistry and get comfortable playing together, so the time for a championship seems to be now. With a loss, questions about Purdy and Shanahan will come into question particularly their ability to win the big games. The 49ers will also face the challenge of figuring out how to keep so many All-Pro players on the same roster.
