After a 4-0 start, the 49ers’ inconsistencies got the best of them and now sit at 7-6 and just out of the playoffs.
They enter the final stretch of the season with the difficult task of winning out in order to have a chance at a playoff appearance. They will have to do this by facing the Falcons (8-5) at home, the Titans (9-4) in Tennessee, the Texans (4-9) at home, and then finishing of the season in LA against the division-leading Rams (9-4). The Rams have already convincingly beaten the 49ers this season in Week 10, as the 49ers were defeated 7-41.
Rookie QB Trey Lance has had a very inconsistent season, as one would inspect from a rookie, especially one that didn’t play a down in his last year of college. He has had bright spots and has made some incredible plays, but he has also made questionable decisions and has looked overwhelmed at times. He’ll need to play more consistently moving forward in order to help his team with their playoff chances.
The defense is currently the #2 defense in the league and they will have to continue playing at an elite level in order to help keep the pressure off of Lance and the offense. Veteran corner Jason Verrett was lost to broken ribs last week, so rookie corner Ambry Thomas will need to step up to fill in as a starter. He’s played very well so far this season as the nickel CB and has accumulated 34 tackles, 2 pass deflections, 5 interceptions, and a forced fumble.
