The San Francisco 49ers received some great news yesterday.
Although initial reporting suggested that their quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo had initially broken his foot, that appears to not be the case.
Divisional Playoff Weekend is seven weeks from the day Jimmy Garoppolo was injured; conference championship game is eight weeks away from his injury, and the Super Bowl marks ten weeks. https://t.co/EPndhwtEjC
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 6, 2022
With the news being more positive than they originally expected, the 49ers could have Garoppolo back in time for their first or second round of the playoffs, if they can make it that far.
Currently, the 49ers are 8-4, which leaves them one full game ahead of the Seattle Seahawks in the division standings.
The 49ers’ Path To The Playoffs
If the 49ers are going to make the playoffs, they will need to continue to be led by their defense, which is currently the NFL’s best.
Their offense might have some trouble spots, especially considering the 49ers’ remaining schedule.
In their next five games, they will face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Seattle Seahawks, Washington Commanders, Las Vegas Raiders, and Arizona Cardinals.
The Buccaneers, Seahawks, and Commanders are all still contending for their playoff lives, and will assuredly provide tough tests for the 49ers.
On Thursday, December 15, the 49ers will travel to Seattle to face their division rival Seahawks.
If the Seahawks can catch up to the 49ers in the divisional race this week, this matchup will likely determine the division.
The 49ers will need former “Mr. Irrelevant” Brock Purdy to lead their team until Garoppolo can come back.
Will they be able to make the playoffs?
Even if they do, will Garoppolo be able to perform to his usual standards post-injury?
