Our Washington Commanders vs. San Francisco 49ers prediction takes a look at the Week 16 matchup that carries immense playoff implications. Let’s dive into the current NFL betting odds, key storylines to watch, and make a prediction for the game. Note that all odds are from DraftKings Sportsbook as of Tuesday, Dec. 20.
Commanders vs. 49ers Odds
- Spread
49ers -7 - Moneyline
49ers -320, Commanders +265 - Over/Under
39
Commanders vs. 49ers Prediction
Washington teeters on the edge of the NFC playoff picture after dropping a pivotal matchup last week against their division opponent, the New York Giants. Going into that game tied in the standings with New York, they now sit at 7-6-1 on the season and just inside the projected playoff race.
Washington wasn’t able to get much done offensively last week in a plus matchup on the ground against the Giants. Despite New York surrendering the fourth-most rushing yards on average going into that matchup, Washington abandoned the run game and ran the ball only 17 times with their RB duo.
This Washington offense isn’t going to find more room to operate this week against a 49ers defense that has suffocated their opponents this season. The 49ers are the best defense in football in 2022, allowing just 15 points per game, which doesn’t bode well for a Washington offense averaging only 18.9 points per game.
The key for Washington winning this game, though, rests on finding success with their RBs and consistently moving the chains. If they can win that matchup — against a very stout 49ers run defense — to control the clock and keep the 49ers’ offense off the field, they could win in a low-scoring affair.
As for the 49ers, every storyline now surrounds the play of rookie QB, Brock Purdy. He’s been incredible for San Francisco in relief of Jimmy Garoppolo, and he’s not only keeping this offense afloat but helping them win games.
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San Francisco has now won seven straight games, and they officially clinched the NFC West title last week with their victory over the Seattle Seahawks. Despite playing their third-string QB, the 49ers still have a shot at battling for one of the top seeds in the NFC now with the injury of Jalen Hurts for Philadelphia.
The key for San Francisco winning this matchup against Washington comes down to execution on both sides of the ball. From a talent perspective, they’re the better team on paper. Their defense is playing at an elite level every single game and has proven that they can slow down any offense the league throws at them.
On the offensive side of the ball, the 49ers have too many playmakers for Washington to keep up with and slow down. With Purdy being able to get the ball into the hands of his playmakers accurately and on time, Washington will need to be incredibly sound on defense to keep themselves in the playoff hunt.
As long as San Francisco doesn’t commit unnecessary turnovers and they can keep the chains moving, we should see them win their eighth straight game.
Commanders vs. 49ers Score Prediction
Commanders 17, 49ers 24