Both teams closed the regular season with painful defeats. San Francisco fell to Seattle (3-13) in a game that disputed the supremacy of the National Conference and the NFC West. Philadelphia lost 17-24 against the Commanders, who had a losing record in the campaign.
In terms of morale, both franchises are wounded, but there are differences between their laments. The 49ers have their pride hurt and want to take it out on whoever they are put up against. The Eagles will take the field worried about the shortcomings that their defense showed against Washington.
Slight advantage for San Francisco
Prior to this game, they have met 37 times. The statistics favor the 49ers with a 21-15-1 record. They have only played twice in the postseason, with one win apiece.
The most recent meeting between them was in the 2023 season with a 42-19 thrashing of San Francisco over Philadelphia. On that occasion, Brock Purdy shone with four touchdowns.
The key to the game: The Eagles’ defense
Washington exposed Philadelphia for its carelessness both on the ground and in the air. If San Francisco designs a plan to do damage on both fronts, it can unbalance the opponent and find the best way to attack them, taking into account that Brock Purdy knows how to hurt through the air.
What should San Francisco do? Make Tanner McKee uncomfortable
The game against the Commanders showed that as soon as the quarterback feels that his space is closing or his receivers are well guarded, he gets nervous and makes mistakes that cost interceptions, incomplete passes or lost yards. The more uncomfortable they make him feel, the more advantage the 49ers will have.
Where and when to watch 49ers vs. Eagles?
Date: Sunday, January 11, 2025
Time: 4:30 p.m. ET
Location: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia
TV: FOX
Streaming: Fubo
Read the full article here
