The 49ers face off with the Green Bay Packers on Saturday night at Levi’s Stadium following their bye week. The bye week couldn’t have come at a better time for the Niners. On top of avoiding traveling, the team will return key players for the divisional game and beyond.
Let’s rank the most important players returning for Saturday’s matchup.
The rookie returning and starting is a boost for this defense. Brown has flashed while going through some rookie moments, but this defense is better with him in the lineup. The 49ers’ next potential opponent has impressive Tampa Bay and Detroit receivers. Brown will be necessary to slow down those groups.
Gipson is as solid as it gets at safety. His return brings stability to the defense. The 49ers’ goal is to limit explosive plays and play discipline. Gipson is what the doctor ordered for a team embarking on a Super Bowl run.
The biggest adjustment out of the bye week for the 49ers and Steve Wilks was inserting Ambry Thomas into the lineup on the outside and kicking Deommodore Lenoir into the slot. Thomas has rewarded the 49ers and Wilks’ faith with great play. As the 49ers advance, Thomas will be a vital part of the 49ers game plan.
