Green Bay Packers: 5 Bold predictions vs. 49ers, Week 12
By Joe Kipp
5. Aaron Jones, Jamaal Williams combine for 150 rushing yards
Running back Aaron Jones has been one of the NFL’s most dynamic players so far this season, but the Packers haven’t faced a defense like the 49ers yet. According to Football Outsiders‘ DVOA system (Defense-adjusted Value Over Average), San Francisco’s defense is rated as the second-best unit in the NFL. Pro Football Focus (subscription required) has the Niners ranked as the third-best defense.
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But when looking at San Fran’s rush defense, the Packers could have some room to run. PFF has the 49ers rush defense ranked as the 23rd-best unit, while Football Outsiders has them rated as the 19th-best. Overall, the 49ers defense currently allows 4.7 yards per carry (tied for sixth-worst in the NFL).
Translation? The key to winning this game for the Packers will be running the ball effectively. Jones and fellow runner Jamaal Williams have been the focal point on offense this season, and we should expect nothing different this Sunday night.
The Niners have one of the best pass defenses in the league (rated second-best by Football Outsiders), which means Green Bay will need big games from both Jones and Williams. I’m predicting at least 150 combined rushing yards between the two, with the potential for over 200 by the time it’s all said and done.