On November 24, 2024, the Green Bay Packers delivered a statement performance with a commanding 38-10 road victory over the San Francisco 49ers. Running back Josh Jacobs played a starring role, scoring three rushing touchdowns and leading a balanced offensive attack. The 49ers, missing several key starters including quarterback Brock Purdy, struggled to keep pace despite a historic milestone from tight end George Kittle.
This late-season matchup showcased Green Bay’s rising momentum and San Francisco’s ongoing injury struggles, dramatically shifting the narrative heading into the playoff push.
Josh Jacobs Powers Packers’ Offense
Green Bay’s offense was firing on all cylinders, and Josh Jacobs was the engine. The former Raider carried the ball 26 times for 106 yards, finishing the night with three touchdowns. His hard-nosed running style wore down the 49ers defense and set the tone early.
Jacobs consistently found seams behind the Packers’ offensive line, picking up critical yards on early downs and finishing drives in the red zone. His third touchdown in the second half effectively put the game out of reach and capped off one of his most productive performances in a Packers uniform.
Jordan Love Efficient in the Air
Quarterback Jordan Love didn’t need to carry the entire offensive load but remained efficient and composed. He completed 13 of 23 passes for 163 yards and tossed two touchdowns, showcasing improved decision-making and poise in the pocket.
Love connected well with his receivers on intermediate routes and avoided costly mistakes. His ability to manage the game complemented Jacobs’ dominant ground performance, keeping the 49ers defense on its heels for much of the night.
49ers Offense Hampered by Injuries
San Francisco entered the game shorthanded, most notably without starting quarterback Brock Purdy. That left veteran backup Brandon Allen to lead the offense, and while he delivered a few solid throws, the results were inconsistent.
Allen completed 17 of 29 passes for 199 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. He struggled under pressure, particularly in the second half as the Packers’ pass rush tightened up. Despite a few positive drives, the 49ers couldn’t sustain momentum, converting few third downs and failing to establish a rhythm.
Christian McCaffrey, usually the focal point of the 49ers attack, was limited to just 31 rushing yards on 11 carries. The Packers defense kept him bottled up, denying San Francisco any explosive plays on the ground.
George Kittle Hits Career Milestone
One of the few bright spots for the 49ers came from tight end George Kittle, who added another chapter to his stellar career. Kittle caught three passes for 22 yards, including a touchdown late in the second quarter that momentarily gave the 49ers life.
That touchdown reception pushed him past franchise legend Roger Craig for the third-most receptions in 49ers history. While the moment was somewhat overshadowed by the scoreboard, it was a noteworthy achievement for a player who continues to be a cornerstone of the offense.
Xavier McKinney Makes Key Defensive Plays
Packers safety Xavier McKinney played a pivotal role in keeping the 49ers at bay. He recorded a crucial interception and broke up a fourth-down pass that helped halt a potential scoring drive.
McKinney’s timely plays exemplified Green Bay’s aggressive defensive strategy, which kept the 49ers from converting key opportunities and consistently pushed them out of scoring range.
Game Momentum and Key Sequences
The game began with a fast pace from Green Bay. Jacobs scored early, and a Jordan Love touchdown pass helped the Packers take a 17-0 lead midway through the second quarter. San Francisco responded with a scoring drive capped by Kittle’s touchdown, cutting the deficit to 17-7 just before halftime.
However, the Packers wasted no time regaining control in the second half. A quick scoring drive extended the lead, and Jacobs continued to find the end zone. With each possession, the 49ers found fewer answers, and the deficit eventually ballooned to 38-10 by the final whistle.
What This Win Means for the Packers
With this victory, the Packers added another impressive performance to their resume as they continue to push for a playoff spot. Jordan Love is maturing with each outing, and the addition of Josh Jacobs has energized the ground game.
More importantly, the defense is showing signs of being a complementary force. The secondary, anchored by McKinney, kept the 49ers’ passing game in check and forced timely stops. With momentum on their side, the Packers are shaping up as a dangerous postseason contender.
49ers Face Uncertainty with Injuries
For the 49ers, the loss raises questions about their depth and ability to compete without key starters. With Brock Purdy sidelined and McCaffrey struggling behind a reshuffled offensive line, San Francisco will need to regroup quickly.
George Kittle’s milestone is a silver lining, but the offense will need more consistency and health if the team hopes to remain competitive through the remainder of the season. Head coach Kyle Shanahan will have to lean on his experience to make critical adjustments.
Looking Ahead
The Packers will look to build on this win as they face a string of important matchups in the final stretch of the regular season. Their balanced attack and growing confidence could be the key to a late playoff surge.
Meanwhile, the 49ers will evaluate their roster health and look for ways to bounce back after a lopsided home loss. With talent across the board, they have the tools to recover, but time is running short.
This Week 12 matchup was more than a regular-season game. It served as a measuring stick for two playoff-hopeful teams heading in different directions. For now, Green Bay has the upper hand, and with performances like this, they’re ready to make some serious noise in the NFC.
