With their playoff hopes dashed, the San Francisco 49ers aim to finish the season on a high note by playing spoiler against the NFC's number one team, the Detroit Lions, in a rematch of last season's NFC Championship Game. This game will be for pride and good measure. What will it take to secure a victory on Monday night? Here are the keys to success in Week 17.
Stop the Run
The 49ers' defense must stop the run, no ifs, ands, or buts. If the 49ers want to win, they must force quarterback Jared Goff and the Lions offense to become one-dimensional. The last time the Lions lost was to the Buffalo Bills, and running back Jahmyr Gibbs rushed for 31 yards on eight carries.
The 49ers' defense is ranked 15th against the run, allowing 121 yards per game. They must set the edge and plug the middle to be victorious.
Limit the Explosive
The Lions have the NFL's highest-scoring offense, averaging 32.9 points per game. It seems they have unlimited weapons week in and week out. The 49ers' defense must limit explosive plays from their leading receivers, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, Sam LaPorta, and Jahmyr Gibbs.
Don't sleep on wide receiver Tim Patrick, Kalif Raymond, and Brock Wright. Each of these players can be explosive on the football field. 49ers coordinator Nick Sorensen needs to have his defense tackle in space, communicate, and execute to limit the explosive plays.
Match Up Defensively
The 49ers must match up defensively. Play the best player on the best player. Expect cornerback Deommodore Lenoir to shadow wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown. Wherever he goes, so should DMo. Cornerback Charvarius Ward would match up well against wide receiver Tim Patrick and could help limit him in the receiving game.
So, who covers wideout Jameson Williams? The safeties must play cover one and coverage to the side of the football field Williams lines up on to limit his explosiveness down the field.
Get Into a Rhythm
Rhythm is key to the 49ers since the offense is timing-based. It's not just about running the ball because the last few teams the 49ers played limited their rushing ability. Expect the Lions' defense to take away the run, especially if rookie running back Issac Gurendo doesn't play.
Quarterback Brock Purdy needs to focus on efficiency by making quick, accurate throws and taking what the defense gives him. The more efficient Purdy is, the better the offense plays.
Limit the Mistakes
Not making mistakes on the football field is almost impossible. Offensively, the 49ers can't afford to turn the ball over. Purdy must command the offense and protect the ball for the game's duration. Just last week against the Dolphins, Purdy's interception came late in the game. Lose the turnover battle, lose the game.
The 49ers must be disciplined and commit fewer penalties. The 49ers committed 11 penalties in their matchup against the Dolphins, five offensively, four defensively, and two on special teams. If the 49ers can limit their mistakes, the team will have a chance against the conference-leading Lions.
Conclusion
Beating the Lions this season may be a tall task. If the 49ers can stick to the keys to victory, they can improve to 7-9 on the season and go out with a bang.