This Will Be A Low Scoring Game

According to ESPN, the New England Patriots are the current favorites to win this game (-2.5) and have set the over/under at 45. This may come as a surprise too many as most would think the San Francisco 49ers are the better team. Regardless, I see this game being a low scoring physical game that does not exceed 40 points.

Both defenses are physical upfront and in the back end. The New England Patriots have shut down corner in Stephon Gilmore, who for most of the night, will probably be following 49ers WR Deeboo Samuel. For the Niners, it is a collective effort as they no longer have Nick Bosa. They have speedy linebackers and CB Jason Verrett is showing flashes of his old self.

This game will feature two teams who are top 12 in the NFL in scoring defense. The Niners are currently ranked at 10th, only allowing 21.7 points per game. The Patriots are currently ranked at 12th, only allowing 22.0 points per game. Both teams all around have strong defenses that is going to force this game to be a low scoring battle.

The Patriots are going to try and use Cam Newton as a runner with read options and other designed runs. The Niners will do their best to maintain him and keep a spy on him throughout the game. The Patriots will hone in on the 49ers run game, forcing Garoppolo to throw the ball down the field.

I can see this game coming down to the wire and have a potential finish of 20-17, favoring the 49ers. The defenses will play a crucial part in this game and perhaps, one turnover either way can swing the outcome of this game.