The NFL’s afternoon slate includes two key NFC games that will help determine the early standings in the NFC West.
NFL scores: San Francisco winning key NFC battle
A barometer game in San Francisco is telling us the 49ers are still very good.
Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
James Dator has been covering a wide range of sports for SB Nation for over a decade, with a special focus on the NFL.
Colin Kaepernick is quickly proving that his small sample size in 2012 is indicative of his ability. Kaepernick has thrown for 177 yards and two touchdowns in the first half. He hasn't had too much success running the ball -- but the 49ers haven't tried it too much either -- with two carries for 10 yards.
The Packers are facing a tough defense, but they can't be happy with the production from their running backs. Eddie Lacy has carried the ball four times and managed just 4 yards. Defensively, Clay Matthews has played extremely well so far, totaling three tackles and a sack in the first half. Aaron Rodgers found Jermichael Finley late in the second quarter to tie it up entering the half.
Carson Palmer is exactly what the Cardinals needed and Larry Fitzgerald is the benefactor. Palmer has over 200 yards passing and a touchdown, while Fitzgerald has five catches for 50 yards. Tyrann Mathieu is already showing that he can be an impact player in the NFL with five tackles and a forced fumble in the first half.
Sam Bradford is very comfortable with tight end Jared Cook. The free agent acquisition has made a huge impact in the first half, totaling 71 yards receiving and a touchdown. Defensive end Robert Quinn is picking up where last season left off and has two sacks already.
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