Heading into the season, San Francisco 49ers fans had high hopes for a Super Bowl run. That goal remains firm inside the locker room. However, injuries have plagued the team, and they are 4-4 entering the second half of the season. This weekend's matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers offers a chance to build some momentum.
ESPN analyst and longtime 49ers fan Matt Miller has his doubts, though. Given the team's struggles, Miller doesn't foresee a return to the Super Bowl. In fact, he's not even convinced the 49ers will make the playoffs.
"A season decimated by injuries will end with the reigning NFC champions missing the postseason and keeping the Super Bowl hangover trend alive for the losing team," Miller predicts.
San Francisco made no significant moves at the trade deadline to bolster its lineup, opting instead for minor reinforcements by adding defensive tackle Khalil Davis and re-signing veteran safety Tashaun Gipson, who started 16 games for the 49ers last season.
These additions likely won't be game-changers. The team is relying on the return of several injured players in the coming weeks. One key offensive playmaker, running back Christian McCaffrey, could potentially make his season debut against the Buccaneers. Others, like defensive end Yetur Gross-Matos and linebacker Dre Greenlaw, could be on the horizon.
Despite this, Miller remains skeptical about the 49ers' playoff hopes.
"Sitting at 4-4 after a bye week, the 49ers are without Brandon Aiyuk for the season and still have Christian McCaffrey on the sideline (though he could return this week)," Miller noted. "Their defense suddenly can't make key stops, either. This looks like a lost year in the Bay."