Packers: 5 potential opponents in first round of playoffs

4. San Francisco 49ers

OK, deep breaths.

Even after this season’s revenge on the San Francisco 49ers, I still get the sense this a matchup Packers fans would rather avoid in January. The 49ers are still a dangerous team as they proved in last week’s win over the Los Angeles Rams. It’s also possible they’ll be much healthier by the time the postseason rolls around.

Right now, we can probably say it’s unlikely the 49ers make the playoffs. However, they’re still close. San Francisco is 5-6 and only a game out. The next two games come against the Washington Football Team and the New York Giants. However, the final two are more challenging against the Cardinals and Seattle Seahawks.

Raheem Mostert has returned since the Packers and 49ers last met. It’s also possible George Kittle could return by the wild-card round.

Here are the positives. Even with a few key players back, this isn’t the same 49ers team that reached the Super Bowl last season. The game would also be played at Lambeau Field, possibly with some fans in attendance.

The 49ers have got the better of the Packers in recent playoff meetings, including their last trip to Lambeau in 2013, but this wouldn’t be the same daunting challenge as a year ago.