49ers vs. Packers: 4 Niners who must be on point in Week 3

No. 1: 49ers Quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo

Quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo didn’t have to do much of anything against the Packers in January of 2020 during the NFC Championship game, but that was primarily due to Raheem Mostert running rampant, as well as the stout 49ers defense.

Mostert’s out, though, and the Niners are averaging only 3.8 yards per rushing attempt thus far this season. And depending on how much firepower Aaron Rodgers and the Packers bring, there’s a good chance Garoppolo will have to play a much bigger role than he did in the playoffs two seasons ago.

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Garoppolo has had an OK start to his 2021 campaign, completing 70.9 percent of his passes with two touchdowns thrown against zero interceptions, although much of his efforts have relied on a more game-management style of play. In Week 3, it’s possible Garoppolo has to win a shootout-style of contest.

If there’s good news, though, Garoppolo has taken just one sack in 2021 behind a revamped and effective offensive line, and the Packers enter Week 3 dead last with just one defensive sack recorded through two weeks.

At least as far as being protected is concerned, Garoppolo should have the edge in what should be viewed as San Francisco’s first massive test of 2021 in the attempt to start the year 3-0.

The 49ers and Packers kick off on Sunday, Sept. 26 at 8:20 p.m. ET from Levi’s Stadium.