The SF defense might be better than the scores indicate.
3.7 surrendered on the ground, 6th. in the league.
11th. in total yards per game.
Where they have not been very good is in the pass rush (9 sacks) and dead last in takeaways with 3. With the offense 31st. in giveaways with 11, they've been battling uphill on that league worst -8 in giveaways/takeawys.
They are 21st. in passer-rating-against at 99.0. Beneath that number are striking contrasts. They are 4th. in completion percentage (59.2%) and 8th. in yards per attmept (6.9) while being tied for last in INTs, and tied for 28th. in passing TDs surrendered (12). 9 of the 12 TDs came within 15 yards which suggests issues with red zone pass D.
As for points surrendered, subtract 14 from the defensive scorecard, a pick 6 and a fumble TD return given up by the offense.
So, what's especially notable about the 3 areas of SF defensive weakness to date, low INTs, low sacks and vulnerable to the pass in the red zone? They play into Rodgers' wheelhouse.
With Beathard, and Breida questionable with a shoulder, the offensive threat is sharply diminished from where they started the season.
This is a pivotal game for the Packers. Week 6, at home, Monday night on national TV, an extra day of prep, looking to get to a winning record, and with the bye the following week there's no excuse for leaving anything on the field.
Add it all up, if the Packers avoid stumbling, bumbling and booting away the ball they should by all rights win this going away. It's time to make a statement.
