Zielinski: Packers won’t show any sympathy for ailing 49ers

By DAN ZIELINSKI

The Packers and 49ers have developed into one of the NFL’s most compelling rivalries. Both teams have been among the NFC’s elite in recent years, with their last two meetings coming in the playoffs. The 49ers narrowly won the last two games, including a 24-21 win in the NFC Divisional Round last season

On Sunday, the Packers (7-3) are in prime position to secure a crucial victory and solidify their playoff hopes. Meanwhile, the 49ers (5-5) are battling through an injury-plagued season and desperately need a win to keep their postseason aspirations alive.

The 49ers will be without starting quarterback Brock Purdy and star edge rusher Nick Bosa for this pivotal matchup. Brandon Allen will start at quarterback in place of Purdy. Although Allen is a veteran backup, his teams are just 2-7 in games he has started. He hasn’t started a game since 2021. With a backup under center, expect the 49ers to lean heavily on their ground game, featuring Christian McCaffrey and Jordan Mason. For the Packers, containing the run and forcing Allen into obvious passing situations will be key to controlling the game.

Bosa’s absence on defense leaves a significant void for the 49ers. Without him, their pass rush has struggled to generate consistent pressure. This allows the Packers to dominate the line of scrimmage and keep quarterback Jordan Love protected and allow Jayden Reed and his fellow receivers to get open..

Protecting the football will be critical for Love. Last year’s playoff loss to the 49ers ended with an interception, and Love’s lone interception last week was costly in a close game. Love leads the league with 11 interceptions, so avoiding giveaways against a depleted 49ers team is paramount.

This is a must-win game for the Packers. With the advantage of playing at home and being at full strength, they must set the tone early, contain the 49ers’ running game and avoid costly mistakes. With the 49ers hampered by injuries, the Packers must seize the opportunity to strengthen their position in a highly competitive playoff race.

Prediction: Packers 27, 49ers 17