The San Francisco 49ers experienced a devastating 38-10 defeat against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field, marking one of their most significant losses in franchise history. This 28-point setback is particularly notable, as it ranks among the worst under the leadership of head coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch.
Several troubling statistics underscore the gravity of this loss:
1. The 49ers defense recorded an alarming 19 missed tackles during the game, the highest number documented since 2006.
2. They allowed 87 yards rushing in the first quarter, the second-highest figure since at least 1991, just shy of a similar performance against the Seahawks in December 2021.
3. Historically, this 28-point loss is now the largest margin the 49ers have suffered against the Packers in the 74-game series, surpassing earlier defeats of 27, 22, and 21 points.
4. This defeat is the third-worst the team has faced since Shanahan took charge in 2017, with previous losses in subsequent years.
5. Packers’ running back Josh Jacobs had a standout performance, rushing for 106 yards and three touchdowns while forcing 15 missed tackles, the highest by any player this season.
6. The 49ers allowed 38 points, the most since giving up 43 to Miami in 2020.
7. Offensively, the 49ers only managed 11 first downs, tying for the lowest output in Shanahan’s 138-game tenure.
Despite these grim statistics, it’s important to remember that the 49ers were missing vital players due to injuries. The absence of key figures like quarterback Brock Purdy, defensive end Nick Bosa, and left tackle Trent Williams was felt deeply throughout the game. While they might have made a difference, it’s clear that the Packers were on an upward trajectory with their momentum.
The hope for 49ers fans lies in the potential for recovery. Injuries can heal, and the team has a chance to regroup, analyze this setback, and return stronger. Learning from such defeats can often lead to improved performances in the future, and this resilient team has the capacity to bounce back and reclaim their competitive edge. With determination and focused training, the 49ers can use this experience as a catalyst for better play going forward.