NFL Media analytics expert Cynthia Frelund listed the 49ers as one of two bubble teams to make the playoffs in her latest column for NFL.com
The other team that Frelund favors to make the playoffs is the Indianapolis Colts, who like the 49ers appear the be getting hot at the right time.
Frelund recognizes that the game against the Vikings is huge, however an easier road lies ahead for the 49ers later in the season.
"Sunday's home game against the Vikings could be a crucial pivot point that dramatically shifts the 49ers' playoff odds, which sat at 33 percent entering this week -- eighth-highest in the NFC, just behind the Vikings. My simulations have San Francisco besting Minnesota 53 percent of the time. Now, the Niners do have two remaining games with win forecasts north of 60 percent: vs. Atlanta in Week 15 and vs. Houston in Week 17."
The 49ers offense has got into a rhythm gym of late, scoring 30 or more points in four straight games. The 49ers have relied heavily on the running game this season but Jimmy Garoppolo has made the most of his limited pass attempts.
"San Francisco's offense is based around rushing efficiencies. According to Next Gen Stats, the 49ers run the fifth-highest proportion of plays with runs or play-action passes at 61.8 percent. In addition, Kyle Shanahan only passes on 69 percent of third downs, which ranks 28th. That said, NGS shows that Jimmy Garoppolo has the second-best passer rating on throws of 10-plus air yards (129.0)."
The past two games the 49ers have dominated the line of scrimmage and have ran for over 150 yards in both contests. Garoppolo has also been very efficient over the past two matchups, throwing four touchdowns to zero interceptions.
In those two games the 49ers have nearly doubled the opponents time of possession.
The 49ers will look to set the tone for the rest of the season when they matchup against the Vikings Sunday, in what should be a playoff game atmosphere.
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
Rapoport: 49ers 'make sense' as potential Jauan Jennings suitor
Could the San Francisco 49ers reunite with a former locker room favorite? NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport believes San Francisco "makes sense" as a potential trade destination for Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Jauan Jennings, who spent his first six NFL seasons (he did not... -
Steve Young urges 49ers to 'go all in' and make a trade
The San Francisco 49ers are 5-0, and many sportsbooks now list them as Super Bowl LXI favorites. Their undefeated start is particularly impressive given the injuries the team has endured and the depth concerns across multiple position groups. Hall of Fame quarterback Steve... -
John Lynch reveals why the 49ers excel with late-round draft picks
The San Francisco 49ers have relied on young players more than expected in recent seasons, largely because injuries have reduced the roster's depth. Two defensive rookies, linebacker Jaden Dugger and defensive tackle Gracen Halton, have seen their roles grow, potentially... -
49ers' Kyle Shanahan explains why Mike Evans is a matchup nightmare
San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Mike Evans brings more to the offense than his ability to win contested catches. His size and physicality create problems for defensive backs. But his performance against the Denver Broncos showed how much he's willing to endure to help his...