3 things Packers must do to beat 49ers in divisional round

Put the game in Jimmy Garoppolo’s hands

The 49ers don’t want this to become a battle between Aaron Rodgers and Jimmy Garoppolo. There’s only one winner in that scenario. San Francisco dominates games on the ground. Joe Barry’s defense must ensure this doesn’t happen and force Garoppolo to step up.

The NFC title game from two years ago is still fresh in the memory. It was one of the most embarrassing defensive performances you’ll ever see from the Packers. Kyle Shanahan could’ve given the Packers the play-call — everybody in the stadium knew they were going to run the ball — but Green Bay had no answer.

Garoppolo had a front-row seat. He only attempted eight passes. Handoff after handoff went for big gains as the 49ers put up 285 yards with four touchdowns on the ground.

The objective for Barry’s defense this week should be clear. Stop. The. Run.

Raheem Mostert won’t be available for a repeat of the playoff game two years ago, but in Elijah Mitchell the 49ers have a very talented running back. In 11 games this year, Mitchell has rushed for 963 yards and five touchdowns, averaging 4.7 yards per attempt. He didn’t play in the first game against the Packers.

Until the Packers prove they can stop the run, Mitchell is going to keep getting the ball.

Green Bay’s defense needs to be ready. As noted earlier, starting fast and building a lead is also so important. Put the game in the hands of Jimmy Garoppolo and the Packers will be playing in the NFC Championship Game.