3 takeaways from Packers’ Week 9 victory vs. 49ers

2. This is the defense we need to see

This was the performance the defense needed following Sunday’s showing against the Vikings. Many 49ers offensive players were out for this game, which clearly had an impact, but the defense dominated in a matchup they were expected to.

This was the most complete defensive performance of the season with the Packers dominating in every area. They controlled the line of scrimmage and allowed little room for San Francisco’s running backs, giving up just 55 yards on the ground and a touchdown.

The pass rush only finished with one sack, but that doesn’t tell the full story. They pressured Nick Mullens all night long, twice leading to turnovers. Pressure from Preston Smith led to a Raven Greene interception, and later on Za’Darius Smith had a strip sack. The defense hit Mullens five times and pressured him on many occasions.

The secondary, despite missing Kevin King, Will Redmond, Vernon Scott, and then Jaire Alexander after he left the game with a concussion, played well.

Darnell Savage had his best game of the season and almost came away with an interception. Greene made one pick. The defense allowed only three points for the majority of the game with the 49ers scoring two touchdowns once most of the starters were out.

Far from the toughest test the Packers defense will face this season, but a great performance nonetheless.