Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
The defending NFC champions will begin the 2013 NFL season against a familiar foe. The San Francisco 49ers will square off against the Green Bay Packers, whom they played and beat twice last year. In his first full season as a starter, quarterback Colin Kaepernick will look to make that a three-peat of one of their soon-to-be rivals.
One of the biggest reasons why the 49ers won both games last year is because of the rushing attack they boast. More specifically, Frank Gore did a number on the Pack in 2012. That number, to be exact — 281.
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In two games combined, Gore rushed 39 times for 231 yards and two scores. He also caught three passes for 50 yards, giving him a grand total of 281 yards from scrimmage. Running the ball at over six yards per carry will more than likely equal a victory — not only for your team, but your fantasy owners.
For this reason, Gore is a must-start in week one at any running back spot. He has owned the Packers defense as of late, and with the versatility Kapernick brings, Gore is even more of a threat as the pressure will be more evenly distributed. I could see Gore going for another 100-plus yards and a touchdown or two in this one.
The Packers and 49ers should be in a shootout on Sunday, even though San Francisco’s defense is the top dog in the league. Aaron Rodgers doesn’t care about that, and likely will get his numbers. Look for Gore to be a big part of the offense and rack up those fantasy points in a hurry when these two teams go head to head this weekend.
Ryan Heckman is a Senior Writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @ryanmheckman, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.
