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2024 NFL odds suggest backing the 49ers to win and cover in a pivotal NFC West showdown.
Just a week ago, this matchup seemed to lack significance.
However, following Week 14, where the Rams stunned the Bills and the 49ers dominated the Bears, both teams are now vying for the NFC West title.
The stakes are high; the team that loses faces elimination from the playoff race.
Kyle Shanahan holds a notable advantage over Sean McVay, with a head-to-head record of 10-5. Excluding a Week 18 game last season featuring backup players, McVay’s two victories against Shanahan since 2019 were both achieved through dramatic fourth-quarter comebacks.
The 49ers are battling significant injuries, with their top three running backs now on injured reserve. If Nick Bosa misses another game, the defense could be without four starters, further complicating their chances.
The recent 49ers victory over the Bears raises eyebrows, as Chicago seemed to lack energy, allowing San Francisco to jump out to a commanding 21-0 lead midway through the second quarter.
Prior to that, the 49ers suffered tough losses against the Packers and Bills on the road, leaving fans and analysts questioning their consistency.
This matchup feels like it could come down to the final possession, given that both defenses have struggled at times this season.
In their earlier meeting in Week 3, the 49ers built a 14-0 lead in the first quarter and were ahead 21-7 midway through the third. However, they faltered late, allowing a comeback that featured costly special teams errors, including a missed 55-yard field goal and a 38-yard punt return. A dropped pass that could have sealed the game added to their woes.
Despite being the stronger team on paper, the 49ers’ record of 2-4 in one-score games this season suggests caution if the game remains close.
