Given that the Packers defeated the Lions 29–22 on Thanksgiving, one could argue that the 49ers and the Packers are the two greatest teams in the NFC.
The 49ers are among the NFL’s hottest teams, along with the Packers.
Both teams have dominated the Cowboys this season, won seven of their last ten games, and have quarterbacks who are among the best in the NFL.
Though the Packers defeated the Lions 29–22 on Thanksgiving, they also suffered a setback to the Buccaneers a few weeks prior, so one could argue that the 49ers and the Packers are the two best teams in the NFC that are still playing. Nevertheless, the Packers are still young and in their prime.
And that made no difference to the oddsmakers.
The 49ers are 9.5-point favorites to defeat the Packers this Saturday at Levi’s Stadium, despite the Packers’ incredibly remarkable performance in the wild card stage of the playoffs, according to BetUS.
It looks unreasonable to spread by 9.5 points. Yes, the 49ers usually win by a double digit margin. It seems sense, then, that you would anticipate a double-digit victory if you believe the 49ers would prevail.
However, this season the 49ers have also failed to defeat a top quarterback. They defeated Dak Prescott, who is unquestionably not elite, and they defeated Matthew Stafford when Cooper Kupp was down. However, Lamar Jackson, Joe Burrow, and Kirk Cousins defeated them. That trio completely destroyed the 49ers’ defense. How would Love treat it?
Love has been the NFL’s second-most efficient quarterback over the last ten games, behind only Brock Purdy, and he hardly ever turns the ball over. In addition, he’s nimble, has the ability to break out of the pocket, and can make throws on the run—exactly the kind of quarterback that causes the 49ers headaches.
Although I would be astonished if the 49ers covered this spread, they should win.
