Unlocking San Francisco's path to victory: dominate early, protect Purdy, and crush the run game to secure their playoff climb.
Coming out of their Week 14 bye at 9–4, the San Francisco 49ers return home with a golden opportunity. The 2–11 Tennessee Titans arrive with little to lose and every reason to play spoiler. For a 49ers team climbing the NFC playoff ladder, this is the definition of a “must handle business” matchup.
To keep momentum rolling, here are the key paths to success San Francisco must execute on Sunday.
1. Start Fast and Avoid the Classic Post-Bye Stall
Bye weeks help teams heal, but they can also stall rhythm. The 49ers need to shake off any early rust immediately. Tennessee has struggled all season, especially in first halves, and San Francisco should capitalize with early scoring drives, scripted success, and downhill offensive pressure.
This is not the week to “feel their way into the game.” Put the Titans on the ropes early and eliminate any hope of an upset.
2. Protect Brock Purdy and Stay Ahead of the Chains
Even with Tennessee’s record, their defensive front can still cause problems, especially if the 49ers get into long down and distance situations. San Francisco must keep Purdy’s pocket clean and stay out of third and long situations.
Purdy’s mobility has been improving week by week despite the lingering toe issue, but the goal is simple: don’t make him have to be Superman against a struggling opponent.
3. Run the Ball Early, Often, and Efficiently
Christian McCaffrey should be the tone setter in this matchup. Tennessee’s run defense has been one of its bright spots at times, but they have worn down late in games. A committed ground attack will control the tempo of the game and limit the time of possession of the Titans. If the 49ers get the run game going, everything else becomes easier.
4. Force the Titans Into Obvious Passing Situations
Tennessee’s offense has struggled to sustain drives, and their rookie QB Cam Ward has been inconsistent (this is to be expected of a rookie QB). The 49ers’ defense thrives when opponents are predictable. If the Titans are forced to throw 30+ times, the 49ers should control this game.
5. Clean Football: No Self-Inflicted Wounds
The only way the Titans win is if the 49ers hand them the opportunity. That means they have sloppy turnovers, special teams mistakes, penalties that extend Tennessee’s drives, or not getting points in the red zone. San Francisco is the better team across the board but they still have to show up to the game and play like it.
6. Stay Focused — No Look Ahead
With key matchups looming against the Colts and Bears, it’s easy to peek forward. But this is the classic trap game for a playoff contender. A locked-in, business trip performance is the final key to success.
Final Thoughts
If the 49ers stay disciplined, protect Purdy, control the run game, and force Tennessee into a one-dimensional script, they should walk out of Levi’s Stadium at 10–4 with their playoff push fully intact. This one is just about taking care of business.