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49ers: 3 players who are X-factors vs. Packers in NFC Championship game

By Jeremy Wohlfart

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 24: Defensive end Nick Bosa #97 of the San Francisco 49ers reacts after making a tackle during the first half of the game against the Green Bay Packers at Levi's Stadium on November 24, 2019 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 24: Defensive end Nick Bosa #97 of the San Francisco 49ers reacts after making a tackle during the first half of the game against the Green Bay Packers at Levi's Stadium on November 24, 2019 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /
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San Francisco 49ers
George Kittle, San Francisco 49ers(Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /

No. 1: George Kittle

Tight end George Kittle is the heart and soul of the San Francisco 49ers. You rarely find a more inspiring and entertaining human being on and off the field.

In the first matchup between San Francisco and Green Bay, Kittle had six catches for 129 yards and a touchdown.

The Packers’ defense had no answer for him.

In the game against the Minnesota Vikings, Kittle had a negligible impact as a receiver with only three catches for 16 yards. As the 49ers converted to a more run-based gameplan, his value was established as a blocker.

As tempting as it is to think it would happen again, the 49ers are unlikely to find themselves in such a situation again. Kittle will be called upon more as quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo’s favorite target.

The Packers’ defense has an Achilles heel, and that is against tight ends, as detailed by Sports Illustrated:

"He’ll face a defense that was torched by tight ends Darren Waller, Travis Kelce, Hunter Henry, Greg Olsen and Kittle in a span of five consecutive games to the tune of 32 receptions for 500 yards and four touchdowns. Green Bay’s performed much better against tight ends down the stretch but it hasn’t faced anyone of Kittle’s caliber."

Look for Kittle to have a huge game as the 49ers offense attempts to hit early and often against the Packers defense.