NFL.com just released its Super Bowl LV predictions, asking 36 contributors to predict the champions. Just two, Joe Thomas and Lance Zierlein, selected the San Francisco 49ers. The overwhelming favorite is the defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs.
Peter Schrager of Good Morning Football can't understand the disrespect the 49ers have endured this offseason. Despite being the defending NFC champions, some question the team's ability to even win the NFC West. It is worth noting that most expect the division to be among the most competitive this season.
Schrager took it a step further and wonders how many experts will select the 49ers to win their opener against the Arizona Cardinals on September 13.
"I don't recall a defending conference champion being slighted more in an offseason, or at least in a ramp-up to a season, both by our show and by the national media, than this 49ers squad," Schrager said on Good Morning Football. "I have not seen one person anywhere pick the 49ers to win the Super Bowl this year. I don't know what it is. I'm fascinated to see what happens and how they respond to that."
It is worth noting that Schrager was among the experts to pick the Chiefs in NFL.com's recent feature.
The NFL Network host goes on to speculate on why San Francisco has failed to garner the respect it deserves this offseason. Could it be the doubts surrounding quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo? Is it the losses of DeForest Buckner and Emmanuel Sanders?
"Like I said, the Super Bowl hangover exists," Schrager continued. "... I think they've been absolutely disrespected this entire offseason."
Added Kay Adams: "I think that the Super Bowl hangover is mythical. I feel like Kyle Shanahan is the thing I can believe in. He's going to have his team locked in."