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last wk.

Predictions Put 49ers Back in Title Frame as Week 1 Opens

Analysts cite a soft schedule and star power, but Christian McCaffrey’s in-game form remains the pivotal unknown.

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 22: Brock Purdy #13 of the San Francisco 49ers throws against the Los Angeles Rams during the first quarter at SoFi Stadium on September 22, 2024 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)
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Overview

  • CBS Sports’ John Breech picks San Francisco to win the Super Bowl over the Ravens and tabs Brock Purdy as his MVP choice.
  • Betting markets have the 49ers favored to win the NFC West, and they opened as one-score favorites for Sunday at Seattle.
  • NFL analyst Brian Baldinger says the division outlook hinges on McCaffrey returning to his 2023 level, noting he skipped preseason snaps and his workload will reveal where he is.
  • San Francisco reshaped its roster after a 6-11, injury-riddled 2024 and locked in Purdy on a five-year, $265 million deal.
  • Multiple preseason top-100 lists feature several 49ers, including Fred Warner at No. 16 on NFL Network’s 2025 ranking.