That’s it, the NFL regular season is over and the San Francisco 49ers are set to face the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday January 11, 2026. But how did we get here?
Well, for starters, Quarterback Brock Purdy has been the catalyst for his team’s recent success. Against the Tennessee Titans, Brock threw three touchdowns, had a completion percentage of 76.7%, and threw for over 295 yards, but Brock was just getting started as he went on to throw five touchdowns against the Indianapolis Colts, and three passing touchdowns and two rushing against the Chicago Bears. Boasting an insane stat line of 13 touchdowns, 1,020 yards, and a 73.3% average completion percentage in his final four games of the season.
However, during the final game of the season the San Francisco 49ers fought at home against division rivals the Seattle Seahawks. This game was probably the most important of the season as it was a battle for the NFC West division and the number one seed in the NFC. What many were expecting to be the highlight of the season ended in a huge disappointment as the game resulted in a low scoring slop fest. The 49ers took their fifth loss by losing 13-3. Some of the major reasons why we lost this game was the lack of a competent defensive line and questionable play calling. (Seriously, who calls a passing play on 4th and 1?) It also didn’t help that starting left tackle Trent Williams was out, leaving Purdy to fend for his life every time he touched the field. Wide Receiver Ricky Pearsall was also absent due to injury causing the 49ers the inability to stretch Seattle’s defense.
Lately, this offence has averaged 34 points per game since Brock Purdy’s return from his turf toe injury in late November. Alongside Brock, the offense remains a powerful force when fully healthy, thanks to the likes of running back Christian McCaffrey, who boasts 1,202 Rushing yards. Tight end George Kittle and Wide Receivers Jauan Jennings and Ricky Pearsall also make this offense a huge threat to the NFL, earning praise from NFL analysts and local beat writers— illustrating why San Francisco is still the team to beat.
However, despite their great offence, issues are clear as day on the other side of the ball. The defence has shown some flashes of greatness, making me believe that the 49ers have all the things they need for the defence to be just as successful as the offence. However, some of the concern for the defense comes from the defensive line and their inability to create consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Head coach Kyle Shanahan, alongside reporters, have also noted that if the 49ers want to have a long-lasting playoff run, then the defense must make these crucial stops. Despite certain struggles, the only reason the 49ers’ defence is staying afloat at all — despite major injuries to players like Fred Warner and Nick Bosa — is thanks to defensive coordinator Robert Saleh. Saleh’s addition to the team has been one of the greatest pick-ups this past offseason, as despite their glaring weaknesses, he is the one taking a class of rookie freshmen and having them boast a 12-5 record.
The 49ers’ special teams have also been a key aspect in games, thanks to punt returner Sky Moore and the new special teams coordinator, Brant Boyer. This season has illustrated a massive improvement on special teams compared to previous seasons. To conclude, the offense and special teams have been doing great, but if the team expects to play the Superbowl at home in Levi’s stadium, then the defense needs to play a lot better, luckily for them, rumors have circulated that star Linebacker Fred Warner may return in the divisional round which will help them out substantially. If the 49ers offence can get 100% healthy and can keep playing like they have been these last four weeks, and if the defense can patch up some of the holes then they will, without a doubt, go on a deep playoff run and may hopefully have the chance to play in the Super Bowl right here in the Bay Area.