Solak's weekly NFL lessons: It's time to call the 49ers' season -- and look ahead to the rebuild on deck
Briefly

In Week 13, the San Francisco 49ers faced a critical juncture in their season, dropping to 5-7, which places their playoff chances at a mere 8.5% according to ESPN's Football Power Index. As the team struggles amidst injuries and inconsistent play, it seems the window for a Super Bowl run is swiftly closing. The upcoming weeks will likely determine if the 49ers can salvage their season or if it truly marks a downturn for the franchise.
In evaluating the AFC playoff landscape following Week 13, it's clear that seven teams boast over a 75% chance of reaching the postseason as per our projections. The thrilling 'Monday Night Football' matchup between the Broncos and the Browns further crystallized this picture, showcasing just how competitive and tightly contested this conference is as December approaches. The NFC, in stark contrast, remains murky with several divisional races yet to resolve.
Arthur Smith’s coaching has been pivotal in igniting the Steelers' offense, transforming what once was a struggling unit into a competent and effective attack. His innovative play-calling and adjustments have led to significant improvements, which we are excited to highlight in this week’s column. This change has not only revitalized the Steelers but also serves as a case study for other teams navigating similar offensive struggles this season.
As we conclude this review of Week 13, it's essential to recognize the changing tides in the NFL. The fortunes of teams can shift dramatically from one week to the next, as evidenced by unexpected performances. Key individual players are stepping up, and statistical analysis is revealing trends that will be critical to monitor. Our All-Film Team roster will also see adjustments, reflecting the ongoing evolution of player impact throughout the season.
Read at ESPN.com
[
|
]