Football

NFL Wildcard Playoff Preview: San Francisco 49ers vs. Philadelphia Eagles

By Keno González

The 2026 NFL postseason kicks off with a bang as the San Francisco 49ers travel to Philadelphia to face the Eagles in the wildcard round. After battling injuries, both teams still managed to post impressive seasons, and now it’s time to see who can get the job done when it counts.As we dive into this matchup, it’s clear: this is going to be a physical, high-stakes battle. Both teams have a lot to prove, and despite their different paths to the playoffs, they share one thing in common—a commitment to grind out wins, even when the odds are stacked against them.

Let’s break it down.

Quarterback Play: The Big Question

It’s no secret that Jalen Hurts had his share of struggles in 2026, but he still brings the ability to make plays, especially with his legs. Hurts finished the regular season with a 7.1-yard average per pass attempt and 25 touchdowns, but his passing success rate of just 43.2% (compared to Purdy’s 55.3%) raises concerns. Hurts is a big threat near the goal line. His 8 rushing touchdowns prove he can punch it in when Philly gets close, but in the open field, he’s been inconsistent.

On the flip side, Brock Purdy has dealt with his own injury woes this season. However, he’s shown a solid resurgence, with 20 touchdowns and just 10 interceptions on 197 completions. While his passing success rate might be lower than Hurts', Purdy is more efficient in terms of yardage and has better awareness in the pocket. He’s been forced to stand tall under pressure, and his mobility in the pocket has improved significantly compared to his rookie season. Still, both quarterbacks have question marks going into this one; Hurts’ ability to push the ball downfield and Purdy’s ability to stay healthy and produce when the stakes are high.

Key Stat: Purdy has 8 attempts of 30-40 yards this season, while Hurts has 31 attempts of 30-50+ yards. Who will connect on more deep passes?

Running Game: Ground and Pound

The Eagles have been solid on the ground, averaging 116.9 yards per game and getting 4.2 yards per carry. Saquon Barkley has been a key contributor, helping stabilize the Eagles' offense when needed. Philadelphia’s success in the red zone (best in the league with a 70.45% touchdown conversion rate) is partially due to their ability to punch it in on short-yardage situations. But let’s not forget the 49ers. Despite a less efficient running game (only 3.8 yards per carry), they have been committed to running the ball and have the weapons to break one. Whether it's Christian McCaffrey on a run or a pass, the Niners can keep ahead of the sticks as well as anyone.

Key Stat: The Eagles have 17 rushing touchdowns this season; the 49ers have 15. But it’s worth noting the 49ers have been more banged up, especially their key run blockers, which has been a factor in their inconsistency. With Trent Williams still questionable to play, the 49ers’ O-line could be in trouble if he doesn’t suit up.

The Battle in the Trenches: A Game-Changer

Both teams have been hit by injuries along the offensive line, and these injuries will have a huge impact on this game. For the 49ers, Trent Williams (their rock at left tackle) was lost in Week 17 and could miss the wildcard game. If Williams can't go, Purdy could face major problems against a strong Philly front.

On the Eagles’ side, Lane Johnson (right tackle) is a key cog, and while he was seen at practice recently, his availability is still in question. If Johnson isn’t back in the lineup, the Eagles’ offensive line could be vulnerable, and the Niners' pass rush could use all the help it can get.

Key Stat: The Eagles allow 124.4 yards per game on the ground, while the 49ers give up 107.8. Both teams will rely heavily on their O-lines to sustain drives.

Defensive Matchup: Can the Niners Hang with Philly’s Attack?

Both of these defenses have been solid, but they’re not without their flaws. San Francisco’s defense has shown flashes of brilliance, especially in the secondary. However, they’ve been prone to giving up big plays, and that’s where the Eagles can strike. Philly has been surprisingly quiet this season—after winning the Super Bowl last year, they’ve been a bit under the radar—but their defense has been a force, ranking 9th in red zone defense (allowing a touchdown just 53% of the time). Philly’s defense can be aggressive and disruptive, especially when it comes to pressuring the quarterback.

On the other side, San Francisco’s defense is more opportunistic, but young. They tend to bend but don’t break, but they’ve struggled against better offenses that can take advantage of their mistakes. They’ll need to keep Hurts contained in the pocket and not let him escape for big runs.

Key Stat: San Francisco allows 21.8 points per game, while Philadelphia allows just 19.1. Which defense will show up when the pressure’s on?

Special Teams: A Hidden Advantage?

Special teams have been a bit of a bright spot for the 49ers this season. The Eagles are solid here too, but the Niners have had their fair share of game-changing plays on special teams. The biggest question for the Eagles might be whether they can trust their kicker in a clutch situation. The 49ers’ kicker, though, has shown consistency under pressure, and with the game likely coming down to the wire, don’t be surprised if special teams play a role in the outcome.

Key Stat: The 49ers' kicker has been more consistent in high-pressure moments, and if this game is close, it could come down to a field goal or big return to swing the game.

Coaching: The Chess Match

Kyle Shanahan is known for being calculated and sticking to a game plan that methodically wears down opponents. He’s not typically aggressive on fourth down, but he’s a master at setting up his plays to create big yardage on key downs. On the flip side, Nick Sirianni is aggressive, especially on 4th downs and in the red zone, where his Eagles are the most lethal in the league.

Key Stat: The Eagles go for it on 4th down more than almost any team in the league, while Shanahan prefers to play it safe, especially on 3rd downs, keeping the offense moving. Which coach will dictate the pace?

Prediction: It’s Anyone’s Game

This one’s a tough call. Both teams are dealing with key injuries, and while the 49ers might be a little more bruised from their Week 18 loss, they’ve shown the ability to fight through adversity. However, Philly’s defense and their ability to control the ball with Hurts and Barkley could be the difference-maker.

If Trent Williams can’t go, it’s going to be a challenge for the 49ers to move the ball consistently. But Purdy has been steady enough to keep them competitive. Ultimately, the game will likely come down to which team can exploit their opponent’s weaknesses, especially in the trenches.

Final Score Prediction: Eagles 24, 49ers 20.

For a deeper dive on what to expect in this game, check out my podcast, Gridiron Wisdom. In this week’s episode we break down all the X’s and O’s in a way that no one else can. See you there!

About the Author: Keno González

Football is family. Never forget that.

Joaquín González has spent over 30 years in the football world, both as a player and coach. After a standout career as an assistant coach in the NFL, he earned a Super Bowl ring with the San Francisco 49ers in the early 90s. Despite his success, Keno never got the head coaching opportunity he felt he deserved in the NFL, so he took his talents to the CFL, where he spent five years as a head coach, revamping a struggling franchise and honing his craft.

After returning to the NFL, Keno shifted to a smaller role, advising and mentoring younger players and defensive units, but his true passion has always been coaching the next generation. When his son was drafted into the NFL, Keno decided it was time to settle in and help his family while still sharing his wealth of football knowledge with the world.

Now, Keno hosts the popular football podcast Gridiron Wisdom, where he offers no-nonsense analysis, breaking down the X's and O's in ways that fans and analysts alike can appreciate. He’s known for his tough love approach, deep understanding of the game, and always being able to tell it like it is. Keno believes that football isn’t just a game—it’s a way of life, and his mission is to help fans see the game for what it truly is: a battle of discipline, heart, and grit.