Gameday Preview: Week 8 – Saints @ 49ers

The Saints (2-4) travel to 3Monster Stick this weekend to take on the 49ers (2-4). Both teams are struggling to stay alive and a win for either of them will help get their team in the right direction. The 49ers are heading into a 4-game stretch where their opponents have a combined record of 7-20. The 49ers must win this weekend for any hope of a winning season.

When the 49ers have the ball:
The 49ers received good news this week with news that Alex Smith will start. The 49ers offense needs a much needed boost and hopefully a healthy Smith is just what the team needs. Last weekend against the Giants the 49ers offense started to open up, but a lackluster performance from Dilfer ruined any positives they had.

Gore is still nursing a sore ankle, but he says he’ll play. Along with Smith coming back the offense will also have a different look to it with Adam Snyder and Ashley Lelie most likely to start in place of injured Jonas Jennings and Darrell Jackson. Lelie getting the start should be intriguing since he can stretch the field. Let’s hope Smith’s long ball is on.

When the Saints have the ball:
Last meeting Reggie Bush had a field day against the 49ers. The Saints will look to get Bush going, but a tough 49ers defense should be able to keep Bush in check. The Saints offense is about as exciting as the 49ers, but if they get things going they could wear down the 49ers defense which has spent a lot of time on the field this season. 

Key Matchup:
Patrick Willis vs Reggie Bush – Speed vs Speed.

Key Injuries:
49ers – Jonas Jennings (questionable) Darrell Jackson (questionable)
Saints – Jason David (questionable)

Expert Picks:
Mort and Golic pick the 49ers, everyone else at ESPN picks the Saints

Vegas Line:
Saints favored by 3.

Prediction:
Biggest question is can Smith get on track and knock off any rust he has, the 49ers O-line must protect Smith and also get the running game going. If the 49ers offense gets on track and doesn’t turn the ball over, they win.

49ers 24 – Saints 13