49ers (11-4) at Commanders (4-11)
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, FedExField, Landover, Maryland
TV: Fox
Spread (BetMGM):
OTB at press time
49ers’ keys to victory: The 49ers should have their way with Washington’s defense. QB Brock Purdy and TE George Kittle had big games against the Commanders last December and should be the focus early in this game. San Francisco should use the passing game to get an early lead on Washington, allowing the defense to pin its ears back and come after the QB, whether that’s Sam Howell or Jacoby Brissett.
Commanders’ keys to victory: A lot would need to go right for the Commanders to win despite San Francisco’s Week 16 loss. To slow down San Francisco’s pass rush, Washington should focus heavily on the quick passing game, finding ways to get the ball in the hands of WRs Terry McLaurin and Curtis Samuel early. The Commanders would also need a big day from the running game in order to pull off the upset. Brian Robinson Jr. has missed the last two games, leaving Antonio Gibson and Chris Rodriguez Jr. to split the backfield duties.
Matchup to watch: 49ers’ defensive ends vs. Commanders’ offensive tackles. 49ers DE Joey Bosa will be a problem for the Commanders, even more so if injured LT Charles Leno Jr. misses another game. RT Andrew Wylie has struggled at times this season. Washington must also deal with DEs Randy Gregory and Chase Young. This is Young’s return to FedExField after an October trade, so he should be motivated for a huge game.
Who wins? With the way these two teams are playing of late, this one should be over by halftime.
49ers, 41-10