Originally posted by APBd:
Another of those pesky Packer fans here. Greetings!
Just caught up with the past 20ish pages of conversation to gauge how the fan base perceives this matchup and, for the most part, it's pretty much what I expected. The confidence many of you espouse is well earned. The 49ers are solid across all phases and it'll be a tall order for the Packers to exit victorious. Just wanted to add a few items of detail to some of the conversation I've witnessed:
- Jordan Love is not the player he was back in October. For that matter, neither is the offense. There were many struggles getting Love and his young receivers on the same page and his stats suffered because of it. It was a growing and learning process for all of them but, as evidenced yesterday against Dallas, they've emerged from that early poor play. I say that to highlight points made based upon early game showings and even season long stats that are not necessarily a good anchor for arguments. Love and the offense started "clicking" about the Pittsburgh game. A better gauge of their talent and efficiency can be gleaned if you narrow your assessment from that point on.
- The loss of OLB Kingsley Enagbare is a hit but I don't necessarily think it's game changing. 2023 No. 1 pick OLB Lucas Van Ness had been held back by default through rotation but should largely be able to absorb many of those snaps. My guess is Brenton Cox Jr will be called up from the PS to give the big 3 of Smith, Gary, and Van Ness any necessary breathers.
- ILB DeVondre Campbell is not the player he was 2 years ago. He's oft injured and was being slowly phased out by Isaiah McDuffie, an undersized but tenacious defender. He, too, is banged up, though, and may not play. If Campbell goes, he's a liability.
I am most intrigued to see Matt LaFleur and KS go at each other schematically. They're each familiar with one another and it'll be interesting to see new tweaks. CMC is my biggest worry. Our DC Joe Barry has allowed some pretty ugly performances from opposing RBs and none were as talented as your guy. If Barry isn't on his game, this could be a laugher. He's been good of late, though, so hopefully we can limit CMCs damage.
Anyway, I've gone too long as it is. Hope the above provides some better insight. May the best team win…and we not be talking about referees come next Monday!
Your guys offense is legit. Solid run game and Love has played very well in the 2nd half. Plenty of good WRs as well that lack the experience but got the talent.
Key for us will be to control TOP, which I think we can. You guys definitely play more of a bend but don't break defense, which is our advantage.
Imo, Packers would be smart to try and establish the run and go play action if they do. Our biggest concern is our run defense. As long as LaFleur doesn't try and force Love to be the hero, it can be a very interesting game.
Always has been!
