5 key reasons why 49ers can upset Packers in NFL playoff bout at Lambeau
A formidable defense
San Francisco’s defense is a big reason why they’re in the playoffs, but an even bigger reason why they beat Dallas. From start to finish, they turned in an impressive 60 minutes of football. More importantly, they put the pressure on thick when the offense began to waiver.
Against the Cowboys, the 49ers created a season-high 22 quarterback pressures. Defensive lineman Arik Armstead led everyone with six pressures for the second consecutive week. His level of production has increased weekly since his move to the inside.
Following his Week 8 shift, the run defense has been the best in the league, specifically against running backs.
Another illustration of how much better the 49ers' run defense has been than the rest of the NFL since Arik Armstead moved to DT...
— David Lombardi (@LombardiHimself) January 20, 2022
Full 49ers/Packers run game breakdown: https://t.co/nc8ez4Cxjo pic.twitter.com/SWNBE58IkG
Over the past five weeks, San Francisco’s defense, on average, has held opposing offenses to 16 points and 269 yards respectively. In that time, they’ve also put up a staggering 95 quarterback pressures.
During regular season play, San Francisco ranked fifth in quarterback sacks with 48, Nick Bosa lead the charge with (15.5). Bosa played an impressive first half against the Cowboys until his performance was cut short with seconds left in the half.
Bad news for the Packers. With Fred Warner and Nick Bosa cleared for play, the defense will return to full strength for Saturday’s game.