The San Francisco 49ers aren’t marching into their matchup against the New Orleans Saints as much as they are limping into it. With injuries to players such as Brock Purdy, George Kittle, and more, it’d be understandable if 49ers fans are skeptical of their chances. But they’re still a very talented team that, if they follow these keys to victory, should return home with a win. 

While he hardly looked elite, Spencer Rattler looked more poised and competent in Week 1 than he did at any point last season for the Saints. Of course, looking better wasn’t hard to do as he was the worst qualified quarterback in football last season. 

Even still, it would behoove San Francisco to make sure that Rattler’s improvement doesn’t continue this week. Watch for Nick Bosa, who recorded a sack in the season opener against the Seattle Seahawks, and company to build on a strong Week 1 against what’s a weaker offensive line in New Orleans.

While making Rattler feel abject chaos in the pocket is a priority on defense, it’s equally important that the 49ers make their own quarterback feel comfortable. Luckily, that should be easier than some would think with the injuries that San Francisco has suffered. 

While Mac Jones isn’t an inexperienced rookie, he’s bounced around for a reason. His limitations make it so that taking as much off of his plate as possible is paramount. 

Luckily for him, his backfield features not one, but two running backs with proven track records. Former All Pro Christian McCaffrey looked great and is another week removed from a calf injury he suffered in practice before Week 1. 

Additionally, Brian Robinson Jr. provides a superb complimentary option at the position. Having never rushed for less than 700 yards in his three years in the league, he’s more than capable of being an effective option while McCaffrey rests. Having two starter worthy running backs is a luxury that should allow the 49ers to take as much off of Jones’ plate as they deem necessary. 

While this would normally mean getting the ball in the end zone, for San Francisco, the job is much simpler: when they get the ball in field goal range on a drive, they must get points. Luckily, that got much easier this week. 

New kicker Eddy Pineiro and his 85.5% field goal made percentage since 2023 replaced Jake Moody and his 73.4% (including missing six of his last 8 in the regular season) in that same time frame. It’s possible that scoring opportunities will be limited for the 49ers this week. Converting them when they have them will be key to both making Mac Jones feel comfortable and winning the game overall.