The 49ers followed up last year's good season by benching Alex Smith midway and letting Colin Kaepernick do his thing. The Falcons finally won their first playoff game with Matt Ryan, but can they beat they well-rounded 49ers? Which team will advance to the Super Bowl?
| 49ers | Falcons | |
|---|---|---|
| 12 - 4 - 1 | Record | 14 - 3 |
| 10.4 | Strength of Schedule | 7.3 |
Offense
The 49ers offense was pretty good this season, and exploded in the playoffs against the Packers. Their regular season offensive score was 31.7 and their post-season offensive score is 63.2. The Falcons have big receivers who can make big plays in the passing game. The Falcons regular season offensive score was 38.3 and their post-season offensive score is 51.0.
Edge: Falcons
Defense
San Francisco has the best defensive unit left in the playoffs. Justin Smith has been battling injury, but when he's on the field he is a difference maker. however, they haven't played great in the playoffs. The 49ers regular season defensive score was 23.4 and their post-season defensive score is 0.5. The Falcons are not known for their defense, but they've gotten the job done. The Falcons regular season defensive score was 13.0 and their post-season defensive score is 1.6.
Edge: 49ers
Special Teams
Both teams have been solid on special teams this year, and both teams have dropped off in the playoffs. The 49ers regular season special teams score was 8.3 and their post-season special teams score is 3.4. Atlanta's regular season special teams score was 6.0 and their post-season special teams score is 1.1.
Edge: 49ers
Miscellaneous
The Falcons have a better win-loss record, but the 49ers faced a tougher schedule. San Francisco won the time of posession battle all year, while Atlanta had a lower penalties-per-play percentage. They had similar turnover differentials and point differentials. Only a slight advantage here.
Edge: 49ers
Final Verdict!
Looks like the Falcons' season is coming to an end. It should be a competetive game that the 49ers win via some dynamic Kaepernick football.
Predicted Winner: 49ers
Stats:| Team | Y | MSM | Off | Def | ST | Misc |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco 49ers | 2012-2013 | 92.10 | 38.0 | 18.8 | 7.4 | 12.0 |
| Atlanta Falcons | 2012-2013 | 82.17 | 40.9 | 10.7 | 5.0 | 11.4 |
