It was a tough luck Week 13 for the San Francisco 49ers. They battled in Baltimore against the league's hottest team and got burned by a last second field goal. The 49ers then had to watch the Seattle Seahawks pick up a Monday Night Football victory, which catapulted them into first place in the NFC West.

The schedule does not get easier for San Francisco as they prepare to take on the New Orleans Saints. This matchup of 10-2 teams has serious playoff implications. Here are three bold predictions for the road 49ers in this one.

3. Niners Take Back the One-Seed

The Niners did more than just lose the top spot in the NFC West in Week 13. Because Seattle holds the lone head-to-head win to date, the Niners fell from the one-seed in the conference to the No. 5 spot. Yes, the NFC East champion is going to host a playoff game, but that is neither here nor there.

With a statement win here, the Niners can claim the one-seed back if the Seahawks lose to the Los Angeles Rams. The loss to the Ravens was devastating, but it was an AFC opponent. San Francisco should have no problem getting over that loss and getting ready for an NFC foe.

2. Jimmy G Shreds New Orleans

San Francisco has been running the ball effectively this season. Raheem Mostert led the way in Baltimore with 146 yards and a touchdown on the ground. They will continue to run the ball against the Saints, but this will open up the play action game for Jimmy Garoppolo to go to work.

The Saints are allowing 234.9 yards per game through the air. That is 17th in the league. Expect Kyle Shanahan to draw up an excellent game plan to get his receivers open in space. Garoppolo could throw for upwards of 300 yards in this one, but just to be safe, let's call it 275 yards.

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JC Latham (Alabama), Chris Braswell (Alabama not Jaguars), Cornelieus Johnson (Michigan) in action behind a New Orleans Saints logo with a 2024 NFL Draft background.

Dylan Bruton ·

1. 49ers Defense Scores

The Niners defense has been on a tear since Week 1. They are near the top of the league in defensive touchdowns scored and they will get one in this game.

DeForest Buckner and Nick Bosa have been animals rushing the quarterback this season. Richard Sherman leads the team in interceptions with three, including one returned for a touchdown. The Saints usually play mistake free games at home, but they will make at least one in this game and it could be the difference in the game.