How can the Atlanta Falcons beat the San Francisco 49ers?

Win the line of scrimmage

Nov 1, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons running back Devonta Freeman (24) breaks a tackle by Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Alterraun Verner (21) during the first half at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

The heart and soul of the 49ers offense has been their ability to run the football. Carlos Hyde took over full-time to start the season and got off to a terrific start, but a foot injury kept him sidelined  last week. Hyde has rushed for 470 yards and three touchdowns on the year and will desperately be needed on Sunday if he can play.

The Falcons have also had a breakout running back in 2015. You all know him by the name of Devonta Freeman. Freeman leads the NFL in rushing, total yards from scrimmage and touchdowns. Enough said.

Whoever wins the line of scrimmage will likely win this football game. With the great run defense the Falcons possess, I like the Falcons’ chances of winning this battle, especially if Hyde is unable to go.

The 49ers will already be without running back Reggie Bush who tore his ACL in an awkward slide while returning a kickoff last week and will resort to Pierre Thomas and Shaun Draughn to carry the load if Hyde is out.

San Francisco on the other hand has allowed the sixth most rushing yards in the NFL. That does not bode well for them with the year the Falcons are having at rushing the football.