2024 NFC Divisional Playoff Recap: San Francisco 49ers Edge Out Green Bay Packers in Thrilling Contest

In a captivating NFC Divisional Playoff matchup, the San Francisco 49ers held off a valiant effort from the Green Bay Packers to secure a hard-fought 24-21 victory at Levi’s Stadium. The game featured several pivotal moments, including clutch defensive plays, explosive offensive spurts, and a second-half surge that propelled the 49ers to the NFC Championship Game.

First Half: Defensive Dominance and Missed Opportunities

The Packers won the coin toss and elected to receive, mirroring their strategy in their Wild Card victory over the Dallas Cowboys. Green Bay methodically moved the ball down the field, reaching San Francisco’s 13-yard line before stalling in the red zone. The 49ers’ defense, led by defensive linemen Chase Young and Javon Kinlaw, combined for a tackle for loss of Packers running back Aaron Jones on first-and-10, forcing a third-and-long situation. Packers quarterback Jordan Love attempted to connect with receiver Romeo Doubs in the end zone, but cornerback Charvarius Ward made a crucial pass breakup, forcing the Packers to settle for a 29-yard field goal on their opening drive.

The 49ers’ defense continued to shine when the Packers faced a fourth-and-one situation from their 14-yard line. Green Bay opted to go for it, handing the ball to Jones, who was stopped by linebacker Dre Greenlaw and defensive lineman Arik Armstead. The Packers’ turnover on downs gave the 49ers offense a chance to respond, and quarterback Brock Purdy led a methodical 12-play, 86-yard scoring drive, capped off by a 32-yard touchdown pass to tight end George Kittle. Purdy showcased his accuracy, completing three 10-plus yard passes on the series, connecting with Jauan Jennings and Brandon Aiyuk before finding Kittle for the go-ahead score.

Injury Concerns and Special Teams Mishaps

The first half was marred by injuries and special teams miscues. Wide receiver Deebo Samuel, a key playmaker for the 49ers, was in and out of the game due to injury concerns. He suffered a hard hit on a nine-yard gain and was initially questionable to return with a head injury before being cleared to play. However, he later exited the game again due to a shoulder injury and did not return in the first half.

The 49ers also faced special teams struggles. Rookie kicker Jake Moody had a 48-yard field goal attempt blocked by defensive lineman Colby Wooden as time expired in the first half, preventing the 49ers from extending their lead.

Second Half: Momentum Swings and a Thrilling Finish

The Packers came out strong in the second half, looking to seize control of the game. Keisean Nixon, a Packers cornerback, made a spectacular 73-yard kickoff return, setting up a scoring opportunity for Green Bay. However, linebacker Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles forced a fumble that was recovered by Packers running back Emanuel Wilson on San Francisco’s 20-yard line. The Packers capitalized on the turnover, scoring a touchdown and converting a two-point conversion to take a 21-14 lead with just over five minutes remaining in the third quarter.

The 49ers responded with a surge of their own. Kittle once again made a big play, hauling in a 32-yard reception on third-and-six, setting up running back Christian McCaffrey for a 39-yard rushing touchdown on the very next play. McCaffrey’s second touchdown of the night came late in the fourth quarter, capping off a 12-play, 69-yard drive and putting the 49ers back in front 24-21 with just over a minute remaining in regulation.

Defensive Heroics Seal the Victory

The 49ers’ defense came up with two crucial interceptions in the second half to seal the victory. Late in the third quarter, Dre Greenlaw intercepted a pass intended for tight end Tucker Kraft and returned it for seven yards, setting up the 49ers’ offense in Packers territory. Moody subsequently kicked a 52-yard field goal to bring the 49ers within four points.

With the Packers driving in the final minutes of the game, Greenlaw struck again, intercepting another pass from Love to effectively end Green Bay’s hopes of a comeback. The 49ers’ defense held strong, securing the 24-21 victory and punching their ticket to the NFC Championship Game.

Key Players and Statistics

• Brock Purdy (49ers QB): 21-of-27 passing, 220 yards, 2 TDs, 0 INTs
• Christian McCaffrey (49ers RB): 17 carries, 98 yards, 2 TDs, 7 catches, 30 yards
• George Kittle (49ers TE): 6 catches, 96 yards, 2 TDs
• Dre Greenlaw (49ers LB): 11 tackles, 2 INTs, 7 return yards
• Jordan Love (Packers QB): 19-of-35 passing, 195 yards, 0 TDs, 2 INTs
• Aaron Jones (Packers RB): 15 carries, 60 yards, 1 TD
• Romeo Doubs (Packers WR): 5 catches, 82 yards

Conclusion

The San Francisco 49ers overcame a spirited effort from the Green Bay Packers to secure a hard-fought 24-21 victory in the NFC Divisional Playoff. The game featured several momentum swings, defensive dominance, and clutch plays from key players. The 49ers will now advance to the NFC Championship Game, where they will face the winner of the matchup between the Philadelphia Eagles and the New York Giants.