3 Reasons Why The 49ers Will Lose to Atlanta

The 49ers travel to Atlanta to play the Falcons on Sunday afternoon with a berth in the Super Bowl on the line.  Here are three reasons why I see the 49ers losing on Sunday.

1) They have won the last 2 games.

The 49ers have not been able to win three games in a row all season.  To make matters worse for themselves they put up historic numbers in their victory over Green Bay last Saturday night for total yards and rushing yards in a playoff game.  The last time the 49ers put up 45 points and rushed for over 300 yards in a single game, they came back the following week with a pass happy game plan and were held to a grand total of 3 points.

2)  Atlanta is nearly unbeatable at home.

The Falcons have lost a grand total of 6 games at home over the last 5 years.  Their only loss this season was the meaningless season finale.  This season the Falcons have defeated their opponents by an average of 4.3 points per game (if you eliminate the shutout of a fledgling Giants team).  Expect a close game that will be decided by special teams, and whose kicker would you rather have kicking a game winning field goal?

3)  Tony Gonzalez

The veteran Tight End can cause matchup problems across the board.  I don't expect to see him make explosive plays, but his ability to get past the sticks and convert for first downs may be the story of this game.  The 49ers must not allow Gonzalez to extend drives that will chew up clock and lead to points.