The San Francisco 49ers will return home to Levi’s Stadium this Sunday looking to get back on track after a loss at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Standing in their way are the Atlanta Falcons, a confident team riding high off a statement win and eager to prove they belong among the NFC’s elite.

The 49ers (4–2) enter Week 7 searching for stability after an injury-riddled start to October. San Francisco dropped two of their last three games, including a 30–19 loss to the Buccaneers in which their depleted defense struggled to contain big plays.

Meanwhile, the Falcons (3–2) are quietly building momentum. Atlanta is coming off a 27–17 victory over Buffalo that turned heads across the league, led by the explosive play of second-year running back Bijan Robinson. With head coach Raheem Morris emphasizing balance and discipline, the Falcons have evolved from a rebuilding project into a legitimate NFC wildcard threat.

Injury Updates and Quarterback Watch

All eyes this week are on the health of 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy, who has missed time with a shoulder issue and a turf toe variant but was back at practice in limited fashion. His availability could determine how dangerous San Francisco’s offense can be. If Purdy is sidelined again, veteran backup Mac Jones would likely start, likely because Jones is also suffering an injured knee and oblique. 

The return of George Kittle, who has returned to practice this week in a limited fashion, is a major boost for the offense. Kittle’s presence over the middle of the field opens up lanes for Christian McCaffrey, who continues to lead the league in total yards from scrimmage.

Defensively, the 49ers will once again be without stars Fred Warner and Nick Bosa, both out for the year with significant injuries. Their absences have left noticeable gaps in the pass rush and run defense, areas the Falcons will look to exploit.

On the Atlanta side, left tackle Jake Matthews is nursing an ankle injury but is expected to play. Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. has shown flashes of improvement but continues to be turnover-prone, something San Francisco will try to take advantage of even with a thin defense.

Key Matchups to Watch

Bijan Robinson vs. 49ers Front Seven

Without Warner and Bosa, San Francisco’s usually elite run defense has taken a step back. Robinson’s vision and acceleration make him a nightmare in open space, and if Atlanta’s offensive line can create lanes early, he could control the tempo of the game.

Christian McCaffrey vs. Falcons Linebackers

Few backs are as versatile as McCaffrey. Atlanta’s linebackers, led by Troy Andersen, will be tested in coverage and tackling. Expect the 49ers to scheme ways to isolate McCaffrey on short routes and screens to create mismatches or use Kittle to distract. 

Purdy’s Pocket vs. Falcons Pass Rush

Atlanta’s defense has quietly generated consistent pressure this season. If Purdy plays but isn’t at full strength, keeping him upright will be crucial, and challenging given the offensive line inconsistency we have seen from San Francisco already this season. 

X-Factors

For San Francisco, the X-factor could be George Kittle. His ability to stretch the field could reignite a passing game that’s been stagnant without him and the wide receiving core.

For Atlanta, Drake London might be the difference maker. The second-year receiver has become Penix's go-to target on third down and in the red zone, and his size could cause issues for a banged-up 49ers secondary.

What to Expect

The Falcons enter this matchup with confidence, but a cross country trip on a short week presents a tough challenge. San Francisco, though battered, remains one of the most well-coached and resilient teams in the NFL. If Purdy returns and the offense finds balance, the 49ers should have enough firepower to protect home turf. Expect a physical battle early before San Francisco’s depth and homefield advantage begin to tilt the game in their favor.