With a San Francisco 49ers game against the Houston Texans, many will tune in to the crucial game for the 49ers. Ahead of the 49ers-Texans, we'll be making our 49ers Week 17 predictions.
The playoff picture is tight, and the 49ers are holding onto a spot for now.
While Houston is a rebuilding team, they played spoiler last week to the Los Angeles Chargers, dropping them right outside the playoffs. This is a game San Francisco can't take lightly, as their remaining games will be vital.
With that said, here are four bold predictions for the 49ers Week 17 game against the Texans.
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49ers Week 17 Predictions
4. George Kittle catches two touchdowns
George Kittle is one of the best tight ends in the league and is the top redzone threat for this team. This season, he has 65 receptions for 871 yards and six touchdowns. These numbers may not look impressive, but he has missed multiple games this season.
Kittle is a tough cover for any defense, and Houston will have a long day trying to contain him.
3. 49ers defense get four-plus sacks
One of the strengths of the 49ers has been their ability to get pressure on the quarterback. Last week against the Tennessee Titans, they had four sacks and put constant pressure on Ryan Tannehill. Against a bad offensive line in the Texans, the 49ers pass rush should wreak havoc on the quarterback.
They have a great defensive scheme, with star Nick Bosa spearheading the defensive line. Bosa and the defensive line should have a field day against Houston.
2. Deebo Samuel goes over 150 total yards
Deebo Samuel has had a phenomenal season as a versatile offensive weapon. He has not only been a great receiver but also an excellent running back. Against the Titans, Samuel had nine receptions for 159 yards and zero touchdowns. He also had five carries for 32 yards.
The Texans don't have an elite corner to cover him, and his versatility will make it even tougher. Head coach Kyle Shanahan is an offensive mastermind and utilizes Samuel in so many different ways.
This season, Samuel has 70 receptions for 1,247 yards and five touchdowns. He also has 44 carries for 301 yards and seven touchdowns.
1. 49ers pull out a win
San Francisco is in a must-win situation in the tight NFC playoff race. These next two games are integral for them to make it to the playoffs. Although they defeated the Chargers, the 49ers should learn from their mistake and come well prepared.
With a game against the Los Angeles Rams next week, this game is even more essential to win. The Rams will also be fighting for playoff position and have the more talented team.
It will start on the defensive end as they will need to create turnovers and pressure on the quarterback. The 49ers will either have Jimmy Garoppolo or Trey Lance starting as Garoppolo is questionable with an injury. Lance starting would be an interesting twist as he is a rookie quarterback.
Even if Lance starts, the team is more talented and better coached than the Texans. Garoppolo has had a solid season, throwing for 3,494 yards along with 19 touchdowns and ten interceptions. He is not an elite quarterback but is good enough to keep the 49ers in games.
While this game may not be highly watched, it will be very important for the 49ers to come out on top.