San Francisco 49ers vs Green Bay Packers NFL Game Preview: Returning Stars Bolster Teams in Preseason Matchup; Start Time, TV Info and Live Stream
Rodgers, Nelson return to camp; Kaepernick prepping for starting return
The San Francisco 49ers are gearing toward their first preseason matchup with the Green Bay Packers on Friday, and they are in for a good fight. With returns from quarterback Colin Kaepernick for the 49ers and Aaron Rodgers for the Packers, the fans may be set for a much-anticipated match.
49ers on defense
San Francisco will once again bank on their defense, which had been their key attribute during the past seasons. The defense lineup is teeming with potential. Despite the surprising departures of All-Pro linebacker Patrick Willis due to injuries and the supposed replacement of Chris Borland due to head trauma fears, the Packers still have a lot pieces to get by.
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The 49ers spent their 2015 first round draft pick on Arik Armstead, and another first rounder in 2016 for DeForest Buckner. The two linemen provide monstrous size to the lineup, and forming a 3-4 defensive line with fellow lineman Quinton Dial, they could average 6'6 ½" in height.
Even the secondary unit is stepping up. Jimmie Ward, the Packers' 2014 first round pick, is moving from nickel back to outside cornerback. With a strong performance at camp, he provides the team solid depth along with sophomore Jaquiski Tartt.
Quarterback Colin Kaepernick is also returning from a shoulder injury, having attended training camps. Kaepernick himself said he has a strong chance of returning to the starting lineup, despite new 49ers coach Chip Kelly stating otherwise.
"I'm going to go out and show everything I can these next two games," Kaepernick told The Mercury News, adding he will do his best to prove his worth to the team. If he is serious about a comeback, however, Kaepernick would have a chip on his tentative shoulder, as Kelly's offensive prowess will put a lot of pressure on the quarterback position.
Nelson, Rodgers return for Packers
The main story for Green Bay on Friday is the anticipated return of wide receiver Jordy Nelson and quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Both men were sidelined by knee injuries, and are poised to make a comeback following impressive training routines during the preseason.
As such, Friday's game might see Rodgers on the field with starters Clay Matthews and Julius Peppers, with Nelson still ruled out for Week 1.
On offense, Packers fans may look forward to undrafted wideout Geronimo Allison. He had been one of the best receivers in camp, standing tall at 6'3"
"He might be the victim of a numbers game - after all, the Packers have as many as seven receivers who have better chances of making the team," said Tex Western of Acme Packing Company. What Allison lacks at speed could be compensated by rookie Trevor Davis, who may see second-half action as a receiver.
Fans can tune in to the preseason matchup at 7:00 p.m. PDT on NFL Network and KPIX 5. Streaming is accessible online through the NFL Game Pass.
