Atlanta Falcons vs. 49ers: Three keys to the game
Dec 23, 2013; San Francisco, CA, USA; Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Roddy White (84) catches the ball between San Francisco 49ers cornerback Tramaine Brock (26) and inside linebacker NaVorro Bowman (53) during the fourth quarter of the final regular season game at Candlestick Park. The San Francisco 49ers defeated the Atlanta Falcons 34-24. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
A win for the Atlanta Falcons, and they surpass last season’s win total before the bye week. A loss, and you could argue the team has failed to build on an impressive undefeated start through the first five games. Up against a struggling San Francisco 49ers, what are the keys to the game?
The 49ers have struggled this season, and their 2-6 record highlights this. But now, a depleted roster takes a few more hits. Quarterback Colin Kaepernick is to be benched in favor of Blaine Gabbert, which is a timely change for the Falcons. Tight end Vernon Davis was traded to Denver this week.
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And that’s not to mention the injures. Running back Carlos Hyde is out with a foot injury, and his backup Reggie Bush was lost for the season last week with a torn ACL. After waiving Jarryd Hayne, San Francisco turned to a veteran Atlanta knows well, former New Orleans Saint Pierre Thomas.
What are the keys to the game for the Atlanta Falcons?
Next: It starts with the fundamentals