The Green Bay Packers are entering the NFC Championship Game as major underdogs against the San Francisco 49ers. Both teams have put together impressive seasons, but they matched up in the regular season and the 49ers were able to embarrass the Packers in a blowout win by a final score of 37-8.
While the 49ers are expected to win this game and move on to the Super Bowl, the Packers have other thoughts. They would like to taste sweet revenge and come through with a big-time win over the 49ers. It won't be easy, especially on the road, but crazier things have happened in NFL Playoff history.
Aaron Rodgers looked sharp against the Seattle Seahawks in the Divisional Round. Green Bay allowed the Seahawks to come back a bit in the second half, but held on for a 28-23 victory.
Matt LaFleur and company have to feel good about their chances. Despite the blowout earlier in the season, the Packers are here for a reason. Beating the 49ers may sound nearly impossible to those who look at the regular season matchup, but we are in a brand new season in the postseason.
All of that being said, let's dive in and take a look at four reasons why the Packers will upset the 49ers on Sunday evening.
4. The Packers' Defense Is Capable Of Stepping Up
First and foremost, the Packers have to feel good about their defense. Granted, they gave up 37 points to the 49ers the first time around, but they have a ton of potential. Whether it be production from their pass rush or plays being made in the secondary, the defense is capable of stepping up.
Just like they did against the Seahawks, Green Bay has seen their defense do just enough to pick up big wins all year long. They are going to be hungry to get revenge on the 49ers, which will give them the exact chip on their shoulder that they need.
3. Aaron Jones Is The Real Deal
Secondly, the Packers finally have a true weapon to take pressure off of Rodgers. Aaron Jones showed signs of being a star under Mike McCarthy, but LaFleur has truly turned him loose. Against the Seahawks, Jones rushed for 62 yards and two touchdowns on 21 carries.
Jones is used to being much more productive with his carries, but he is capable of picking up the hard yardage. He is also a lethal weapon in the passing game. When the Packers need a big play and to force the 49ers to stay honest, Rodgers will have an opportunity to make a big play or two.
2. Jimmy Garoppolo Will Make Mistakes
Next up, the Packers must focus on slowing down the San Francisco running game. They have relied on production on the ground all season long. When forced to rely on the arm of Jimmy Garoppolo, the 49ers have had trouble at times.
Garoppolo is more than capable of making big mistakes in crucial situations. If the Green Bay defense can force him to make big throws late in the game, they will capitalize. Forcing a turnover or two could be exactly what the Packers need to pull off a shocking victory.
1. Aaron Rodgers Is Back For The Packers
Finally, but certainly not least important, the Packers have a sharp Rodgers back. He completed 16 of his 27 pass attempts for 243 yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions. It wasn't a huge statistical game, but it was exactly what the Packers needed to see from him.
Rodgers made clutch throw after clutch throw down the stretch of the game. San Francisco has a great pass rush and they have a solid secondary. Even with those things going against him, Rodgers' desire for another Super Bowl appearance will help him drive the Packers to an NFC Championship win.
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