After watching the 49ers get slammed by the Baltimore Ravens on Thanksgiving Day, I think I lost half my hope on them. The final score was a sad 16-6, leaving one Harbaugh coach happy, and the other fuming with fury. The 49ers lost against the Ravens mainly because they had poor pass protection from the offensive line, missed third-down tackles, a dismal running game, and Alex Smith (49ers Quarterback) held the ball too long, so of course the Ravens came with speed and sacked him nine times.
Sure, there are many factors people believed caused their loss. The 49ers did not play on their home turf, only had three days of preparation, and were under immense stress since this was the ultimate “Harbowl”. However, a team must be prepared under difficult circumstances to be Superbowl-worthy.
On the other hand, the 49ers only need to win one of their next five games in order to win their division and head to the playoffs. They have not had such a good current record (9-2) since 2002, when they ended 10-6 and went to the playoffs. For a lot of fans it’s amazing to see how much the 49ers have improved this year: there are a lot less turnovers, better ball control, a better kicking game, and of course, an awesome coaching staff.
Nevertheless, there are still a lot of holes in the 49ers’ offense and defense. I’m happy enough that our beloved 49ers will probably make it to the playoffs, especially since a lot of people thought the 49ers would only be a sub-par team ending with a record of 8-8.
Let’s face it.
For the 49ers to play in the Superbowl, they will probably have to face the currently undefeated and reigning Superbowl champs, the Green Bay Packers (11-0) in the playoffs. It would mean that the 49ers will have to play their A+ game (not just A) and the Packers would have to play at their worst (F-).
But I believe in miracles, and who knows. Anything can happen on a given Saturday or Sunday. I just don’t want to stir up any hopes then watch them sink down into a hole of sorrow later.