San Francisco 49ers (11-4) vs. Washington Commanders (4-11)
San Francisco 49ers vs. Washington Commanders December 31, 2023 – In a Week 17 NFL showdown, the San Francisco 49ers, with an impressive 11-4 record, are set to face the Washington Commanders, who have struggled this season with a 4-11 standing. This matchup, occurring on Sunday, December 31, 2023, at FedEx Field, is pivotal for the 49ers’ playoff positioning and presents an opportunity for the Commanders to disrupt their momentum. As football betting picks today circulate, this game is drawing significant attention from betting enthusiasts.
San Francisco 49ers vs. Washington Commanders December 31, 2023 Game Info
| When: | Sunday, December 31, 2023, at 1:00 PM ET |
| Where: | FedEx Field |
| TV: | FOX |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Sam Darnold QB vs. Sam Howell QB
Sam Darnold has seen minimal game action this season as the backup to Brock Purdy. In his 8 appearances, Darnold has completed just 12 passes for 108 yards, 1 touchdown and 1 interception. His 60% completion rate and 70.4 passer rating are well below his career averages. Darnold possesses adequate arm strength but has always struggled with decision making and turning the ball over. While he has several years of NFL experience under his belt, Darnold’s limited work this year makes it difficult to assess his current level of play.
Sam Howell has shown promise but experienced customary first-year growing pains. In 15 games (7 starts), he has put up decent raw numbers – over 3600 passing yards with 19 touchdowns. However, his 63.2% completion rate and 17 interceptions reveal his lack of consistency and propensity for mistakes. Howell has above average arm talent and mobility, flashing the potential that made him a 5-star recruit and standout college player. He has seemingly locked down the starting job for the last two weeks of the season as Washington evaluates him for the future.
49ers’ Rushing and Receiving Threat
The 49ers feature one of the NFL’s most dynamic rushing attacks. Christian McCaffrey is a true dual-threat, racking up nearly 1400 rushing yards and 9 scores so far. He averages 93 yards per game and 5.4 yards per carry. McCaffrey’s versatility poses problems for defenses. In the passing game, Brandon Aiyuk has emerged as WR1. He is averaging 18.5 yards per catch with 6 touchdowns. Aiyuk has great speed to take the top off defenses and is excellent after the catch. This multifaceted 49ers offense keeps opponents guessing.
Commanders’ Ground and Aerial Strategy
Washington’s rushing offense is anchored by Brian Robinson Jr. The rookie running back went over 600 yards this season while playing in just 13 games. He averages a respectable 51.1 yards per contest but lacks game-breaking explosiveness. Robinson’s development is a positive sign going forward. Terry McLaurin has been Washington’s top receiving threat for multiple seasons now. He is extremely consistent, collecting nearly 900 yards coming into Week 17. While his 12.8 yards per catch is down from prior years, McLaurin is still capable of big games. He remains far and away the Commanders’ WR1.
NFL Betting Odds: San Francisco 49ers -850, Over/Under: 49.5
The odds heavily favor the 49ers, reflected in their -850 moneyline and a -13.5 point spread. The over/under set at 49.5 points suggests a high-scoring game, aligning with the 49ers’ recent trend of games going over the total.
San Francisco 49ers Betting Trends
The total has gone OVER in 4 of San Francisco’s last 5 games.
San Francisco are 6-1 SU in their last 7 games.
San Francisco are 6-2 SU in their last 8 games against Washington.
49ers are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games on the road.
San Francisco are 6-2 SU in their last 8 games when playing on the road against Washington.
San Francisco are 5-0 SU in their last 5 games against an opponent in the National Football Conference conference.
Washington Commanders Betting Trends
Washington are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games.
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Washington’s last 6 games.
Washington are 0-6 SU in their last 6 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Washington’s last 7 games against San Francisco.
Washington are 0-5 SU in their last 5 games at home.
Washington are 2-6 SU in their last 8 games when playing at home against San Francisco.
San Francisco 49ers vs. Washington Commanders Betting Picks
Given the trends and team strengths, the 49ers are expected to dominate this matchup. Their offensive firepower, especially with McCaffrey and Aiyuk, should be too much for Washington’s defense. The spread is large, but San Francisco’s recent form suggests they can cover it.
For those looking at Americas online sportsbook, the over on the total points seems like a promising bet, considering both teams’ recent scoring trends. Prop bets on key players like McCaffrey and McLaurin could offer additional value.
Receiving Yards Prop: 49ers 34, Commanders 17.
