Brock Purdy was born and raised in Queen Creek, Arizona (less than 40 miles southeast of Phoenix) and will join a cheering group of friends and family at State Farm Stadium in Scottsdale on Sunday. The 49ers host Kyler Murray and the Arizona Cardinals make a splash in celebration of Purdy’s homecoming. Could Murray crash the party?The 49ers might have the best roster in football. The card board has many holes, especially in the defensive areas. One area where the 49ers have struggled is on defense. Arik Armstead and Javon Hargrave were ejected.
The same goes for Elijah Mitchell, Ross Duelly and Oren Burks. Dr. Greenlaw was attacked. That includes offensive linemen Aaron Banks and Spencer Burford. Money Ward is dealing with a groin strain, which could be a challenge for the cornerback.Cards are also broken, but replaceable players are much more likely to be replaced than stars or superstars.The 49ers defense did a great job of confusing Jalen Hurts in Philadelphia two weeks ago. Nick Bosa didn’t use any moves that compromised hole integrity or edge control. Turn or swim moves, outside pass runs, inside passes or tricks. The bull went right past the quarterback, then waited until Hurts was surrounded before entering the pocket.Murray will be harder to cover. He is a more dynamic runner (faster and faster) than Hurts.
As mentioned above, the 49ers are short on both ends of the defense, making Javon Kinlaw their top defensive lineman. This is star power that will be missed not only in the middle of the defensive line, but also in the deep end of the game. Additionally, Murray is smaller, which appears to be an advantage for the 49ers, but he has been called tough in recent games between these two teams. It’s also a classic trap game scenario for the 49ers, who play the AFC-leading Ravens in a potential Super Bowl preview next week on Christmas.
I’m looking forward to this epic battle. The 49ers scored 12 points, a lot on the road. With over 60% of the crowd expected to be 49ers fans, it may feel like a home game. The Cards are getting close or even early, but I’d be surprised if the 49ers don’t win. 49ers 34 – Card 24.
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