San Francisco 49ers (11-4) vs. Washington Commanders (4-11)
In a crucial Week 17 encounter, the high-flying San Francisco 49ers, boasting an impressive 11-4 record, are set to face the struggling Washington Commanders, who sit at a disappointing 4-11. This matchup, scheduled for Sunday is drawing significant attention from those interested in NFL free picks today. While the 49ers aim to consolidate their playoff position, the Commanders look to salvage pride in a season marred by underperformance.
The 49ers offense has been a force to reckon with this season, particularly in terms of running and receiving. Running back Christian McCaffrey has been outstanding, amassing 1,395 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns over 15 games while averaging an incredible 5.4 yards per carry; his dynamic running style and ability to break long runs has been essential to their ground game success. Brandon Aiyuk has also proven invaluable; amassing 1,203 receiving yards with 6 touchdowns at an average of 18.5 yards per reception!
On the other side of things, the Washington Commanders have had less impressive offensive results. Quarterback Sam Howell has had a difficult year, throwing for 3,624 yards, 19 touchdowns, and 17 interceptions across 15 games at an 80.5 passer rating. Brian Robinson Jr.’s 664 rushing yards and five touchdowns has helped keep their opponents at bay; wide receiver Terry McLaurin remains a reliable target, amassing 885 receiving yards with three scores; unfortunately however, their lack of consistent quarterback play has hindered their receiving corps.
San Francisco 49ers vs. Washington Commanders Game Info
| When: | Sunday, December 31, 2023 at 1:00 PM ET |
| Where: | FedEx Field |
| TV: | FOX |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Brock Purdy QB vs. Sam Howell QB
Brock Purdy has shown impressive poise, accuracy and decision making well beyond his rookie status. Completing 69% of his passes, he has thrown for over 250 yards in four straight contests while posting an excellent 11-1 TD-INT ratio over that span. His 112.2 passer rating would rank second only to injured starter Jimmy Garoppolo on the season. Benefiting from San Francisco’s strong run game, Purdy has excelled at play action and bootlegs. With the 49ers likely to gash Washington’s porous run defense, Purdy should get plenty of open looks downfield. Expect him to sustain drives and put up points.
Sam Howell has struggled with turnovers in recent weeks. With 10 interceptions over his last six starts, he has often tried to force throws into tight coverage. Playing behind an O-line that has allowed 14 sacks across the last three games, Howell seems prone to mistakes if forced into obvious passing situations while playing from behind. Against the 49ers’ fierce pass rush, he may lack the time in the pocket to go through progressions and find open targets. Howell has shown flashes of talent, but still has a ways to go in his development.
NFL Odds/Point Spread: San Francisco 49ers -850, Total Odds: 49.5
The betting odds heavily favor the 49ers, reflecting their dominance this season and the Commanders’ struggles. The spread of -13.5 for San Francisco underlines the expected one-sided nature of this contest. However, bettors should consider the high point spread and the potential for a closer game than the odds suggest.
San Francisco 49ers Betting Trends
The 49ers have been strong both straight up (SU) and against the spread (ATS), especially on the road where they are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games. Their trend of going OVER in 4 of their last 5 games indicates a potent offense capable of putting up significant points.
Washington Commanders Betting Trends
The Commanders have struggled ATS, going 1-4 in their last 5 games. Their trend of going OVER in 5 of their last 6 games suggests defensive vulnerabilities that the 49ers could exploit. However, they have a tendency to go UNDER against the 49ers, indicating a potential for a lower-scoring game than usual.
San Francisco 49ers vs. Washington Commanders 12/31/23 Betting Picks
Based on the comprehensive analysis and betting trends, the 49ers seem poised to continue their winning ways against the Commanders. Their balanced offense, led by Purdy and McCaffrey, should be able to exploit the Commanders’ defensive weaknesses.
For those interested in live betting, keeping an eye on the game’s flow and adjusting bets accordingly could be advantageous, especially given the large spread. Prop bets on individual performances like McCaffrey’s rushing yards or Purdy’s passing touchdowns could offer additional value.
