49ers vs. Packers: 3 bold predictions for divisional round of NFL playoffs

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San Francisco 49ers kicker Robbie Gould (9) kicks a field goal out of the hold of punter Mitch Wishnowsky (6) Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /

Prediction No. 2: 49ers special teams turns things around vs. Packers

For our next bold prediction, the Niners’ heavily criticized special teams unit finally makes a game-changing play.

It has been somewhat of a shaky season for special teams coordinator Richard Hightower and his group, and at least in terms of kickoffs and punting, San Francisco has been exploited this year, and even Dallas caught them snoozing once again.

Already down by three scores early in the fourth quarter, the 49ers truly believed they were getting the ball back by way of a punt. Instead, punter Bryan Anger completed a 16-yard pass to cornerback C.J. Goodwin, the gunner, and the Cowboys were back in business with a fresh set of downs.

Fortunately, the Cowboys ended up making plenty of additional mistakes, including ones right after that fake punt. It allowed the Niners to maintain a firm grip on the game despite the valiant comeback efforts from Dallas.

However, if San Francisco has any aspirations of continuing a postseason run, it’s going to need solid contributions from all three phases of the team.

Special teams winds up making some sort of impact. In a good way.