Dominating the trenches, disciplined defense and a potent run game are critical for the 49ers to bounce back against the Cardinals.
The San Francisco 49ers enter Week 11 looking to get back on track against a 3-6 Arizona Cardinals squad that will be without quarterback Kyler Murray. Veteran Jacoby Brissett has taken the reins for Arizona, a steady but limited passer who thrives when he’s protected and able to operate on schedule. For the Niners, whether it’s Mac Jones under center again or Brock Purdy making his return, the formula for victory remains the same: control the line of scrimmage, play clean football, and let the talent advantage on the offensive side of the ball take over.
Here are three keys to a 49ers victory this weekend:
1. Win the Battle in the Trenches
If the 49ers want to dictate the pace early, it starts up front. The offensive line needs to rebound after inconsistent performances in recent weeks, especially in run blocking. Establishing the ground game with Christian McCaffrey and Brian Robinson will help take pressure off whoever starts at quarterback.
Defensively, San Francisco’s injury-plagued front must step up against an Arizona line that has struggled in protection. With Mykel Williams sidelined and several other linemen banged up, players like Keion White and Robert Beal Jr. will have to generate interior pressure to make Brissett uncomfortable. Winning at the line of scrimmage has long been the foundation of this team’s identity and this week, it’s a non-negotiable.
2. Stay Disciplined on Defense
The Niners’ defense has battled through injuries all season. Against Brissett and an Arizona offense likely to lean on short passes and the run game, communication and discipline will be crucial. Linebackers Dee Winters and Curtis Robinson must key in on Bam Knight's (if he’s healthy) physical running style, while the secondary can’t afford lapses against receivers like Michael Wilson and Greg Dortch. (Marvin Harrison Jr. is out this week at least due to surgery for appendicitis.)
Even with backups in the lineup, San Francisco’s defensive system can still thrive if everyone plays within structure. This is a “do your job” kind of game.
3. Establish the Run Early and Often
It doesn’t matter whether Mac Jones or Brock Purdy starts, the Niners’ offense needs to run through their backs. Christian McCaffrey’s versatility and Brian Robinson’s power complement each other perfectly, and getting both involved early can dictate the game’s rhythm. A strong run game also neutralizes Arizona’s pass rush and allows the offense to stay ahead of the sticks.
If San Francisco commits to feeding its backs and letting the ground game drive the offense, the rest, including whoever’s under center, will fall into place.
With the NFC West race heating up and both the Rams and Seahawks ahead, this is a pivotal week for the 49ers to regain momentum. The formula for victory is simple: win in the trenches, stay disciplined, and let McCaffrey and Robinson carry the load.