Los Angeles (AFP) - The San Francisco 49ers kick off a three-game acid test of their Super Bowl credentials on Sunday when they host Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers in a clash that could have far-reaching postseason implications.
After years in the doldrums, the 49ers have rediscovered their mojo under head coach Kyle Shanahan this season, winning nine games and losing only once to boast the best record in the National Football Conference.
The question of whether the 49ers are genuine Super Bowl contenders, however, is about to come under severe scrutiny as the Niners kick off a daunting series against three of the strongest teams in the NFL.