49ers @ Packers Betting Tips: Underdog 49ers to grind out win in Lambeau

Going into writing these NFL betting columns, my initial reaction is always to look at the underdog to see if I get the odds against price to win straight up. Backing the favourite always feels a bit boring and that is partly why when we got the slate for Divisional Weekend, I assigned myself this game. Can I talk myself into betting on the visitors? Not to spoil the ending of the story but damn straight I can...

We’ll start with the weather. Everyone knows that Green Bay, Wisconsin is one of the toughest places to play in the postseason. The forecast calls for light snow flurries and freezing temperatures. Usually this would not help a warm-weather team but the 49ers are built like a team who plays in these conditions week in, week out. They don’t throw the ball deep but do like Time of Possession.

Jimmy Garoppolo might not be at the level of his QB counterpart in this game but he knows how to run this offense. The jack of all trades Wide Receiver Deebo Samuel has been a revelation when lined up in the backfield. I have no doubt he’s one of the first players punters will be looking for when looking at the Player Prop Bets.

What does concern me however is injuries. Both Fred Warner and Nick Bosa are thought to be gametime decisions. If either or both are missing then my rush to pick the underdog will slow down to a crawl and possibly even a backtrack.

As for the home side, we all know the Packers are an excellent team. Aaron Rodgers might be the most controversial player in the league but his qualities should be unquestioned. His rapport with Davante Adams is akin to what Cooper Kupp has with Matthew Stafford out in LA. He’s the favourite in the First/Anytime TD markets but too short of a price for me to tip him up.

The Packers have a very good complimentary running game to go along with what Rodgers will be doing. Aaron Jones and AJ Dillon can both pound the rock and in what is expected to be - very chilly - weather in Green Bay, they are good options for Prop Betting. They are both 5/1 to rush for over 100 yards and score a TD. That is a tempting price. I’m not going to tip them up but in the final minutes before the game starts, I wouldn’t be shocked if I have a few quid on both.

Tipping wise I’m going to go with the 49ers to win straight up in a low scoring affair. That is very much predicated on both Bosa and Warner playing. I like them to keep the chains moving and dominate Time of Possession. If Rodgers is sat on the cold sideline then he's going to struggle to get into any sort of rhythm. This is best-price 2/1 at the time of writing with multiple bookmakers.

When it comes to the Prop Bets I’m going to old faithful. George Kittle is one of the finest receivers in his position and I think is the player the away team will rely on with their limited passing attack. 7/1 to go over 100 yards and score. He’s achieved this feat three times in his past ten outings.