San Francisco 49ers vs. Arizona Cardinals Preview & Prediction

Have the 49ers done enough to sway you into thinking they are Super Bowl contenders?

You better believe it.

It is hard to argue with a relentless defense, physical running back and a quarterback that can manage a game with the best in the NFL.

And so the Arizona Cardinals dawdle into Candlestick Park with an acquired quarterback that does not work and a team hoping for next season. That will not stop them from playing a gritty game against one of the NFL's elite.

It is a trap game for the 49ers if there ever was one.

The Cardinals are coming off back-to-back wins against the Rams and Eagles, and are most likely looking to make it three, while trying to salvage a dismal season after trading for one of the more coveted quarterbacks of the offseason.

For San Francisco, there is not much to it. A conservative game plan will win this game. In other words, play like you have been playing all year.

Frank Gore is said to be ready to go, but if push comes to shove in the second quarter, we will see a whole lot of Kendall Hunter from then on. That may not be the worst thing either.

Arizona has one of the worst passing defenses in the NFL and it is paired with the 21st-ranked rushing defense. Offense may not be needed much in this game for the 49ers, but it may come willingly anyways.

The game falls on Alex Smith's shoulders in this one, and if he can hold onto the ball while limiting mistakes, then we will see San Francisco cruise to a victory.

X-Factor

The Cardinals willingness to win is the key factor here. After pulling off a win in OT against the Rams and shocking the Eagles, the Cardinals are believing. The 49ers cannot fall into the trap they have set before them.

In addition, Smith cannot turnover the ball, which he has been very good about staying away from this season.

Prediction

The running attack and physical defense are consistent week after week, and we can count on that to continue once again in Week 11 for the 49ers.

Smith will not be urged to force the ball, as he was against the Giants last week, and San Francisco should roll to a big win at Candlestick Park.

49ers win 27-17