The Green Bay Packers are looking to continue their playoff run. Even though many are expecting the San Francisco 49ers to win, look out! This team is peaking at the right time. They played great against the Dallas Cowboys. Even though many pegged them to lose then. An outright win on Saturday is not out of the question.
Green Bay Packers Favored By Former QB
On FanDuel TV’s Up & Adams, Kurt Benkert shared his thoughts with host Kay Adams. Despite being once a member of both teams, Benkert was put on the spot. However, remaining as objective as possible in his new media role, he believes that the edge belongs to the Green Bay Packers. The newly dubbed “Benkert Bowl” has some interesting aspects to it. Regardless if you are picking the 49ers, Benkert makes some valid points to consider!
Who has the advantage Saturday … Matt LaFleur or Kyle Shanahan? ? #GBvsSF@KurtBenkert @heykayadams pic.twitter.com/IyqYieso6m
— Up & Adams (@UpAndAdamsShow) January 17, 2024
Because this Green Bay Packers team is so young, they can play without any weight on their shoulders. And although there was earlier turmoil, this team has turned around. Just like the former QB pointed out, they are playing with house money. Being able to play freely takes away self-imposed restraints that some players mentally will go through.
This aspect is a clear advantage for the Green Bay Packers. With arguably the best overall roster in the league, it will be seen as a disappointment if the 49ers come up short of winning the Super Bowl. How often have players gone on the field to avoid losing, fearing their mistake would cost the game? In contrast, the Green Bay Packers will be able to play more downhill. Looking for the upset, while hoping to extend their playoff journey!
Green Bay Packers Path To Victory
Forget covering! This group has a legitimate shot to advance! Benkert alludes to the game plan that has worked in the past and could work again for the Green Bay Packers. Of course, every team wants to establish an early lead. It’s even better when you can maintain said early lead! But against this San Francisco collection, it is even more important. Under Kyle Shanahan, the 49ers are 0-38 entering the fourth quarter when losing by 7+ points. Although most will not look great in that scenario, it speaks to a larger point.
Coach Shanahan tries to control the game and then allows the ground attack to run the game out. This has a two-pronged effect. Firstly, it allows the defense to rest. Secondly, Brock Purdy is not in a position of having to chase the game as much as others. On the other hand, the Green Bay Packers, through Jordan Love, are more seasoned in terms of playing a complete 60-minute game. Whether or not the defense can slow Purdy down, the gap between the two sides is smaller than what many consider.
Green Bay Packers Ability To Go Head-To-Head
If the offense can establish the run or loosen up numbers in the box through the passing game, it could spell danger. However, this is easier said than done. But the 49ers have struggled at times against the run, and Green Bay Packers Aaron Jones is playing as well as any running back right now.
With four consecutive 100-plus yard rushing games, his production will be important to monitor. With zero sign of slowing down, Jones can be a handful! Turning the time of possession in favor of the Green Bay Packers is essential. While not only keeping options open for Love, it also keeps Purdy on the sideline.
And just like Benkert said, the more uncomfortable the Green Bay Packers can make their opponents feel the better! Could this game turn into a blowout 49ers win? Sure. But with how everything is unfolding, the safe bet is for the Packers to keep it close. An outright win may shock some, but it will come as zero surprise to Benkert or others who have followed this Green Bay Packers team.
For More Great Sports Content
Gabriel Enjoys all things sports! Football, soccer, basketball, volleyball. You name it! Huge fan of the Nebraska Huskers and New England Patriots. Even bigger advocate of running the football!
Follow him on Twitter at @BigTenGabriel, and follow us @TotalApexSports. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL sports, click here!
Leave a Reply