The anticipation is building as the San Francisco 49ers prepare to face off against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, AZ. This Sunday, January 5, 2025, at 4:25 pm ET, fans can catch all the action on FOX. Both teams are looking to end their seasons on a high note, despite being out of playoff contention.
Opening Odds at USA Sportsbooks
The betting lines are set, and the odds are intriguing. According to DraftKings, the 49ers are 4.5-point underdogs against the Cardinals, with an over/under of 42.5 points. Bet365 offers a similar spread, but slightly adjusts the over/under to 43 points. BetMGM lists the 49ers at +4 and the Cardinals at -4, with an over/under of 42.5 points. These odds reflect the close competition expected between these two NFC West rivals.
Season Record
The 49ers have struggled this season, holding a 6-10 record and sitting in fourth place in the NFC West. Injuries have plagued their campaign, but they’ve shown resilience in recent games. The Cardinals, with a 7-9 record, are in third place in the division. They started strong but faltered after their bye week, missing out on the playoffs as well.
Recent Form
Both teams are coming off losses. The 49ers lost a high-scoring game against the Detroit Lions, 40-34. Quarterback Brock Purdy threw for 377 yards and three touchdowns, but it wasn’t enough to secure a win. The Cardinals, meanwhile, fell to the Los Angeles Rams, 13-9. Kyler Murray threw for 321 yards and a touchdown, but his late interception sealed their fate.
San Francisco 49ers vs Arizona Cardinals Preview and Analysis
The 49ers have been inconsistent, with a 1-4 record in divisional games and poor performances on the road. Their offense showed promise against the Lions, but defensive lapses have been costly. For the Cardinals, their once-promising season took a downturn, and their offense has struggled to find rhythm. They had a chance to upset the Rams but fell short in a close contest.
49ers vs Cardinals Prediction
With both teams out of playoff contention, this game is more about pride than standings. The 49ers, despite their record, have shown fight and determination. The Cardinals, on the other hand, have been unreliable, especially in recent games. The prediction leans towards the 49ers covering the spread, with a final score of 49ers 27, Cardinals 13. Keep an eye on expert picks for more insights.
NFL Betting Trends
Betting trends offer valuable insights. The 49ers are 1-5 ATS as underdogs and have struggled against strong offensive teams. However, they have a 3-0 record on the OVER when avenging a home loss. The Cardinals are 8-3 ATS after a divisional loss and have a strong OVER record in various scenarios. These trends can guide bettors in making informed decisions.
Key Injuries
Injuries play a crucial role in this matchup. For the 49ers, key players like Kyle Juszczyk and Nick Bosa are sidelined, impacting both offense and defense. The Cardinals face their own challenges, with James Conner and other key players questionable or out. These injuries could influence the game’s dynamics significantly.
Notable Quotes
Coaches from both teams have shared their thoughts after recent losses. Kyle Shanahan acknowledged the defensive struggles against the Lions, emphasizing the need to slow down high-powered offenses. Jonathan Gannon reflected on the Cardinals’ missed opportunity against the Rams, highlighting the team’s potential when playing their brand of football.
Starting Lineups
The 49ers’ offense features key players like Deebo Samuel and George Kittle, while Brock Purdy leads at quarterback. The Cardinals rely on Kyler Murray, with Trey McBride and Michael Carter as key offensive contributors. These lineups will be pivotal in determining the game’s outcome.
Statistical Leaders
For the 49ers, Brock Purdy leads in passing yards, while George Kittle is the top receiver. The Cardinals’ Kyler Murray is their passing leader, with James Conner excelling in rushing. These players have been instrumental in their teams’ performances this season.
As the 49ers and Cardinals clash, fans and bettors alike will be watching closely. With nothing to lose, both teams are expected to put on an entertaining show, making this a must-watch game for NFL enthusiasts.
