Not quite revenge, but a step in the right direction.
The name San Francisco 49ers strikes dread into the hearts of Green Bay Packers fans.
Over the last 12 years, the Packers have lost five pivotal playoff games to the 49ers – each more agonising than the last.
Sunday’s 38-10 rout of Kyle Shanahan’s injury-ridden squad might not erase those bitter memories, but it was a deeply satisfying victory for a Packers team now 8-3 and eyeing a playoff spot.
Josh Jacobs dominates on the ground
Green Bay’s game plan was evident from the start: run the ball straight down San Francisco’s throat.
Josh Jacobs was unstoppable, shrugging off a league-high 15 missed tackles on his way to three touchdowns.
It was his most dominant performance this season, and a crucial one for the Packers’ playoff hopes.
Head coach Matt LaFleur will be pleased to see improvement in areas that have plagued the team since Week 1.
For once, penalties, interceptions, and poor red zone execution were not issues.
Missed opportunities and defensive brilliance
On a less positive note, however, drops remain a frustrating concern.
Christian Watson missed a sure touchdown on a perfectly placed pass from quarterback Jordan Love late in the second half.
On the defensive side, Xavier McKinney shone – grabbing his league-leading seventh interception on a tipped pass from back-up quarterback Brandon Allen.
The defense also forced two fumbles, including one from Christian McCaffrey, who struggled against Green Bay’s energised defensive front.
Jordan Love’s steady hand
Jordan Love delivered his first turnover-free game of the season, an encouraging sign for Green Bay’s future.
While there were some risky throws that were dropped by the Niners defense, Love has been far more composed since the bye week.
In the last two games, he has thrown for over 400 yards and three touchdowns with an average passer rating of 113.
The Packers cannot afford to celebrate for long though.
A tough Thanksgiving showdown with the rejuvenated Miami Dolphins awaits—a crucial test for a team gaining momentum at just the right time.
