Schefter says 49ers may target Thomas, Hamlin, Banta-Cain and Steinbach

The San Francisco 49ers have a formidable obstacle in the way of their second Super Bowl appearance in four years. They'll travel to Philadelphia this weekend to face the top-seeded Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. In addition to battling a difficult opponent, they'll have to find a way to block out the passionate Philly fanbase. "The environment, it'll be hostile, it'll be loud, as it should be," defensive coordinator DeMeco Ryans told reporters before Thursday's practice. "NFC Championship Game. We're in their stadium. We're on their turf. We also understand it's going to be hostile, but you also have to understand you block out all those distractions, and you just go and play the best football you can play for three-and-a-half hours." One 49ers offensive

According to head coach Kyle Shanahan, San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey won't practice on Thursday, which means he'll have missed two consecutive practices due to a calf contusion. It's something everyone around the NFL media world is keeping an eye on this week as the team prepares for its NFC Championship Game clash against the Philadelphia Eagles. Don't expect a little injury to keep McCaffrey out on Sunday, though. Reporters asked the running back if there was any chance in his mind that he wouldn't play against the Eagles. "Zero," McCaffrey quickly and confidently responded. The 49ers traded for McCaffrey on October 20. He has started each of the team's past 12 games, including these last two playoff matchups. San Francisco

Do you smell that? It's playoff football. It's a time to celebrate. For a few more precious hours, every team in the tournament still has life, still has reason to hope. There are no more guaranteed games, but there's football to be played, and right now is the time to exult in it. No matter who you root for, you can imagine your team finding a way to win, a way to keep playing football, and filling your February with excitement and joy. Right now, there's nothing standing between your team and glory except the vagaries of chance and a well-fought effort this weekend, and hopefully the next. And for those of you who aren't rooting for a team that's made it this far, never fear. 7 of the 14 playoff entrants this year didn't make it into the dance last year. The

The San Francisco 49ers are renewing their longtime rivalry with the Dallas Cowboys when the two sides face off on Sunday in the NFC Divisional Round, one season after the former defeated the latter in the 2021 NFC Wildcard round. Both teams have strong offenses and defenses, which means that there will be many impactful players on both sides of the ball. But, for now, let's eye in on the X-Factors for each team that could help determine the outcome of the game. 49ers Offense: Brandon Aiyuk Brandon Aiyuk has enjoyed a breakout