5 Bold Predictions For Washington Redskins vs. San Francisco 49ers

By Jeff Pearlman

5 Bold Predictions For Redskins vs. 49ers

Frank Gore San Francisco 49ers — In a matchup featuring two teams going in opposite directions, the San Francisco 49ers -- two-straight wins -- get set to host the Washington Redskins -- two-straight losses -- in Week 12. The 49ers are clinging onto life in the NFC playoff race while the Redskins are licking their wounds, both mental and physical.

Here are five predictions bolder than Jay Gruden's comments about RGIII this week.

5. Aldon Smith Gets a Sack

Aldon Smith San Francisco 49ers

5. Aldon Smith Gets a Sack

Aldon Smith San Francisco 49ers — He made his presence felt in the 49ers' win over the New York Giants, but Aldon Smith didn't record a tackle, let alone a sack.

This week, in his first home game of the season, will be a different story. Redskins starting left tackle Trent Williams is injured and his backup, Morgan Moses, isn't quick enough to contain No. 99.

4. RGIII Responds to Criticism

Robert Griffen III Washington Redskins

4. RGIII Responds to Criticism

Robert Griffen III Washington Redskins — RGIII is not a bad QB. I mean, by the heel of Achilles, he was an NFL ROY less than three years ago.

However, he's simply not getting it done this year. For one reason or another, the very basics of the QB position -- three-step drops as opposed to one-step drops, for example -- are eluding him. He's faced a lot of criticism this week, and it wouldn't surprise me if he showed us all a little vintage, circa 2012 RGIII on Sunday.

3. Vernon Davis Has Best Game of Year

Vernon Davis San Francisco 49ers

3. Vernon Davis Has Best Game of Year

Vernon Davis San Francisco 49ers — In eight games, Vernon Davis has 18 catches for 176 yards and two TDs, which both came in Week 1. Whether it's a nagging injury or the fact that he's over the hill at age 30 (not likely), Davis has not been his usual ball hawking, touchdown scoring self.

Nobody's talking about him anymore, and I think he'll change that against the Redskins.

2. Turnovers Will Decide the Game

Niles Paul Washington Redskins

2. Turnovers Will Decide the Game

Niles Paul Washington Redskins — The 49ers own the NFL's third-ranked turnover differential (10) while the Redskins mosey into Levi's Stadium with the league's third-worst mark (-11).

The formula for success of both teams: don't turn the ball over and you'll win the game.

1. Gore Gets At Least 15 Carries

Frank Gore San Francisco 49ers

1. Gore Gets At Least 15 Carries

Frank Gore San Francisco 49ers — After last week's win over the New York Giants where Gore ran 19 times for 95 yards, the 49ers are now 6-0 in 2014 when Frank the Tank gets 15 carries or more in a game.

Here's a free, uncomplicated blueprint for the 49ers' offensive coaching staff; give the ball to Frank Gore at least 15 times and win.

You're welcome.

Jeff Pearlman is a writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.

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