The 49ers have won six straight after losing two of three midway through the season, is it as simple as saying it’s because they got Brock Purdy back from injury, or did anything else change to help them get on a roll?
Jeannel: I’d have to say that getting Purdy back was certainly the biggest game-changer. Purdy returned in Week 11 against Arizona and immediately elevated the offense, throwing for three touchdowns and 200 yards. That Cardinals game also marked the first time Purdy and TE George Kittle were back on the field together since Week 1, reestablishing one of the offense’s most important connections and opening things up for the rest of the unit.
There have been a few other areas that have also contributed to the 49ers recent success. Special teams, in particular, emerged as a legitimate weapon. Shanahan’s approach has evolved from simply avoiding mistakes to actively creating advantages through field position, explosive returns, and dependable kicking. Contributions from players like Skyy Moore and Luke Gifford have turned a former weakness into a game-impacting strength, taking on the identity of the team’s offense and defense.
In light of all the players who have missed time this year, what has a healthy Christian McCaffrey meant to the team?
Jeannel: A healthy McCaffrey has meant everything to this team. Last season, when McCaffrey rarely saw the field, the 49ers finished 6–11. This season, he’s rarely coming off the field, and the result is a team sitting at 12 wins and a spot in the postseason. In a year that’s been plagued by injuries, McCaffrey’s health and elite playmaking has been one of the biggest reasons the 49ers are positioned where they are right now.
Aside from the obvious big names, what player or players could you see being an X-factor for San Francisco in this game?
Jeannel: I think Kendrick Bourne is a true X-factor in this matchup. He’s 49 yards away from reaching the 600-yard mark, which would trigger another contract incentive. Bourne has the kind of relationship with Purdy where, if the offense is in rhythm, he isn’t afraid to ask for a few targets. Another X-factor is tight end Jake Tonges, particularly depending on Kittle’s availability. Tonges stepped into a bigger role last week and delivered, finishing with seven receptions for 60 yards and a touchdown. On the season, he’s totaled 34 catches for 293 yards and five touchdowns.
What matchup or matchups are you most looking forward to seeing play out on Saturday night?
Jeannel: Watching Purdy going up against Seattle’s defense is the matchup I’m most excited to see. The Seahawks hold the NFL’s top third-down defense in 2025, while the 49ers lead the league in third-down conversion percentage at 50.98. Over their last three games, the 49ers have played some of the most efficient football of the season, converting an impressive 63.89 percent of their third downs while scoring 37 points against the Titans, 48 against the Colts, and 42 against the Bears. That momentum, and the battle on third down, could very well determine who walks away with the NFC West title and the No. 1 seed.