NFL playoffs: Predicting which 49ers defenders make life hell for Packers

49ers X-factors on defense for NFC divisional-round playoff game.
San Francisco 49ers linebacker Fred Warner (54)
San Francisco 49ers linebacker Fred Warner (54) / Michael Zagaris/GettyImages
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9-8. 12-5. 42. 8 p.m. ET. 49ers -9.5. 49. Fox. Saturday, Jan. 20. Packers-49ers opening

Let's take a look at which 49ers defensive players end up making a world of difference against the Packers in the divisional round.

The NFL world was shaken Sunday night as the No. 7 seed Green Bay Packers came into AT&T Stadium and dominated the No. 2 seed Dallas Cowboys 48-32 in the Wild Card round of the NFL playoffs.

This now sets the stage for quarterback Jordan Love and Co. to come into Levi Stadium to face the No. 1 seed, the San Francisco 49ers.

After Green Bay's offensive explosion, one in which linebacker Fred Warner joked about Dallas "not being prepared," here is a look at three potential X-factors on the Niners defense.

Chase Young, Defensive End

The mid-season acquisition of Chase Young has helped San Francisco out tremendously. He was able to add 2.5 more sacks to his previous five with the Washington Commanders.

Young's sack contributions helped San Francisco tie for seventh overall in total sacks with 48. This was good enough for first in the NFC (tied with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers). Furthermore, Young also had a pass deflection with each team.

The 6-foot-5, 265-pounder is a force to be reckoned with and can provide fits for a young quarterback in Love.

The 24-year-old headliner gives an extra presence on the 49ers' defense that only allowed 20 touchdowns the entire 2023 season, which was tied for eighth best.