Injuries Hand them a Major Edge Over the 49ers
The Green Bay Packers enter Week 12 in a strong position health-wise, which gives them a significant advantage over the San Francisco 49ers, who are struggling with a number of injuries. The Packers are in excellent shape physically as they prepare for Sunday’s matchup at Lambeau Field, while the 49ers are battling through several key injuries that have impacted their performance this season.
Despite some setbacks, such as cornerback Jaire Alexander possibly missing the game due to a knee injury and running back MarShawn Lloyd being sidelined for another four weeks, the Packers are relatively healthy. This contrasts sharply with the 49ers, who have been hit hard by a variety of injuries, leaving them with a 5-5 record. As a result, the 49ers are in a critical position, needing a win to stay in contention for a playoff spot.
The 49ers’ injury issues go beyond just this week’s report. Star defensive end Nick Bosa is dealing with a hip and oblique injury and missed practice on Wednesday, while quarterback Brock Purdy (shoulder) and tight end George Kittle (hamstring) were limited in their practice participation. Additionally, the team has placed five key starters on injured reserve.
Receiver Brandon Aiyuk, who had a stellar 2023 season with 75 receptions for 1,342 yards and seven touchdowns, is one of the players missing from action. Aiyuk was largely contained by the Packers in last year’s playoff game but still had a key third-down conversion during a crucial drive. While Jauan Jennings has stepped up in Aiyuk’s absence, he does not provide the same deep threat that Aiyuk brings, as Jennings has averaged just 12.9 yards per catch compared to Aiyuk’s 17.9.
Another significant loss for the 49ers is defensive tackle Javon Hargrave, who has been one of the league’s top playmaking defensive tackles. Hargrave, a Pro Bowl selection in 2023, had seven sacks and made multiple key plays for the 49ers this season. His presence in the middle of the defense will be missed against Green Bay.
The 49ers are also missing linebacker Dre Greenlaw, who is recovering from an Achilles injury. Greenlaw has been one of the team’s top tacklers in recent years, and his absence further weakens an already banged-up defense. Safety Talanoa Hufanga, a former All-Pro, is another key player on the injured list, as he tore his ACL in 2023 and has only appeared in two games this season.
Punter Mitch Wishnowsky, one of the NFL’s top punters, is also sidelined, with former Packers punter Pat O’Donnell filling in. While O’Donnell is serviceable, Wishnowsky’s absence is another blow to the 49ers, particularly when field position could play a key role in such an important game.
Apart from Bosa, the 49ers’ injury report isn’t overly concerning for this week, although Bosa’s potential absence is a huge factor. The 2022 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, Bosa is currently leading the league in pressures per game. His ability to disrupt the game could make a significant impact if he is able to play, but his injury makes him a game-time decision.
On the offensive side, running back Christian McCaffrey, who missed the first part of the season, has returned but has not been performing at his previous MVP-caliber level. Last year, McCaffrey was the NFL Offensive Player of the Year, leading the league in both rushing yards and total yards. However, this season he is averaging only 3.7 yards per carry, down from 5.4 last year.
Tight end George Kittle, one of the top players at his position, is another 49ers star battling through injuries. Kittle missed last week’s loss to Seattle but is expected to play against Green Bay. He has been a major factor in the 49ers’ offense, recording over 1,000 yards receiving last season and another 560 yards with eight touchdowns this year. In last year’s playoff game against the Packers, Kittle had several key plays, including a 32-yard touchdown.
Quarterback Brock Purdy is set to start despite a sore shoulder. While Purdy doesn’t have the strongest arm, he has been effective in leading the 49ers’ offense, ranking third in yards per attempt this season. He finished last year ranked first in passer rating and yards per attempt, and Green Bay head coach Matt LaFleur has acknowledged his effectiveness, praising his ability to run the offense.
On the Packers’ side, quarterback Jordan Love is also dealing with the aftermath of a knee injury from Week 1 but has been feeling progressively better. Love’s mobility, which was a significant factor in the Packers’ victory over Chicago last week, should be another weapon as he faces the banged-up 49ers defense. He has expressed feeling more comfortable and confident in his movement, which could be crucial as he looks to guide his team to another win.
Given the Packers’ relative health and the 49ers’ injury woes, Green Bay enters this game with a significant advantage. If they can capitalize on San Francisco’s injuries, particularly in the trenches and on defense, they may be able to secure a crucial victory at home, moving them closer to playoff contention while further damaging the 49ers’ postseason hopes.
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