[ad_1]
To view the live updates on your mobile device click here.
GAME ESSENTIALS: Commanders (7-6-1) vs. 49ers (10-4) at Levi’s Stadium, at 1:05 p.m. (PT). TV: CBS. Announcers: Kevin Harlan (play-by-play), Trent Green (color commentary), Melanie Collins (sideline reporting).
ODDS: 49ers -6.5. OVER/UNDER: 37.5.
SERIES: 49ers lead 18-11-1. LAST MEETING: Washington won 23-15 on Dec. 13, 2020.
The 49ers have already won the NFC West, but the chance to guarantee two home playoff games is still well within reach.
And the 49ers currently look like the hottest team in the NFL right now, with a league-best seven-game winning streak entering the special Christmas Eve Saturday showdown with the Washington Commanders — and yes, that’s even with a major quarterback injury happening in the middle of that streak.
Third-string quarterback Brock Purdy has played incredibly well in his three starts so far, averaging 204 yards passing and two touchdowns per game while completing 69% of his passes. He’s also shown a scrambling ability, too, rushing for one touchdown.
But one key to Purdy’s success is the immense amount of talent around him, with a stout offensive line complimenting some elite playmakers. In all three games with Purdy under center, running back Christian McCaffrey has had at least 135 yards from scrimmage (combining rushing and receiving yards).
Perhaps an even bigger key? The league’s top defense, with the 49ers allowing the points (15.0) and yards (286.1) per game of any team in the NFL. They’re also third in turnover differential on the season. But Saturday’s opponent, the Commanders, also bring an elite defense to Santa Clara, as they’ve allowed the third-fewest yards per game (308.9) and have held their opponents to under 20 points per game on average (19.7). They also have a top-level special teams unit, which could test San Francisco.
It’ll be a holiday special under delightful weather at Levi’s Stadium, with 60 degrees and sunshine in the forecast — which look especially good considering how miserable the weather is elsewhere in the NFL. Happy holidays, everyone.
Follow along with our reporters Cam Inman and Jerry McDonald, columnist Dieter Kurtenbach and other analysts providing their thoughts about the game.
[ad_2]
Source link
Comments are closed.