Packers: Jimmy Garoppolo ‘not going to be 100%’ in divisional round

If the Green Bay Packers can stop the run versus the San Francisco 49ers in Saturday’s divisional round, they will have every chance to dominate the game.

The Packers already have a significant advantage at quarterback with MVP candidate Aaron Rodgers up against Jimmy Garoppolo.

To make it worse for the 49ers, Garoppolo is dealing with two injuries that could impact his ability to throw.

According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the expectation is that Garoppolo will play against the Packers, but he is “not going to be 100%”. Along with a torn ligament in his thumb, Garoppolo is also dealing with a sprained shoulder.

Cold temperatures at Lambeau Field won’t make that any easier.

Kyle Shanahan’s game plan will likely be to run the ball early and often. It worked just fine in the NFC Championship Game two years ago, but if the Packers can slow down their ground game and put the game in Jimmy G’s hands, it will be advantage Green Bay.

Aaron Rodgers has also been playing through injury late in the season, but he looks to be close to 100%. While Rodgers is still on the injury report with a toe injury, he’s been a full participant at practice all week so far, a great sign he’s healthy.

If Garoppolo isn’t feeling 100%, the Packers’ pass rush is going to need a good game. The potential return of Za’Darius Smith would help. Get pressure in Garoppolo’s face and, dealing with two injuries, it’s possible it could lead to a turnover.

For now, it doesn’t appear Garoppolo is in any danger of missing the divisional round at Lambeau Field, but will he be limited in any way? Dealing with two injuries, the 49ers’ run game becomes even more important on Saturday night.

The Packers’ defense can’t allow them to dominate on the ground.