Bill Belichick didn’t just speak casually—he zeroed in on Jalen Hurts and the Eagles’ offense. Combined with Trent Williams’ return and Pearsall’s progress, his comments highlight exactly where this Wild Card game could be won or lost…1805
In a surprising twist ahead of the NFC Wild Card clash between the San Francisco 49ers and Philadelphia Eagles, legendary coach Bill Belichick—forever tied to his New England Patriots dynasty—dropped a major bombshell on SiriusXM radio. While acknowledging the 49ers’ brutal injury woes this season, Belichick cast serious doubt on the Eagles’ offensive capabilities, questioning how they’ll perform and specifically calling out quarterback Jalen Hurts’ readiness. “The big question for Philadelphia, I think, is how are they going to play offensively and how’s the quarterback? How’s that going to go?” Belichick said, noting that the Eagles have relied heavily on their defense to win games this year. He added that while Philly looks better on paper, the banged-up 49ers could make it a real battle, praising coaches Kyle Shanahan and Nick Sirianni. This candid take from the six-time Super Bowl winner has fans buzzing—could Belichick’s skepticism be the psychological edge San Francisco needs?
But the real good news for the 49ers came straight from their own camp on Thursday, providing clarity, progress, and positive injury developments that could flip the script in their favor for Sunday’s showdown at Lincoln Financial Field.
After a disappointing Week 18 loss to the Seattle Seahawks that highlighted their dependence on star players, the 49ers’ practice session offered hope. Key offensive lineman Trent Williams, who missed Wednesday’s workout, was a full participant on Thursday. Williams hasn’t played since injuring his hamstring on the first snap of Week 17, but after nearly two weeks of rest, his full involvement signals he’s likely suiting up against the Eagles.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan, who had been cagey about Williams’ status earlier in the week, now seems more optimistic.
Wide receiver Ricky Pearsall also showed promising signs, running routes on the side field despite knee and ankle issues. He didn’t join team drills but was in jersey and performing individual work—a step forward for a player whose absence crippled the passing game in Week 18.
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These updates are massive for a 49ers offense that looked disjointed without them against Seattle. Williams isn’t just a starter; he’s the cornerstone of San Francisco’s scheme. His absence forced the team to abandon outside runs and the wide zone entirely, limiting Christian McCaffrey’s effectiveness and dismantling the screen game. Facing an Eagles defensive line boasting seven players with at least 20 pressures this season, Williams’ blocking prowess and ability to protect Brock Purdy on the left side could be game-changing.
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Pearsall’s impact is equally critical. In Week 18 without him, Purdy attempted just five passes over 10 yards, with most coming late in garbage time. Contrast that with healthier weeks: 11 deep attempts in Week 17 and 18 in Week 16. Pearsall leads the team in deep targets, receptions, and yards despite limited snaps, creating space for the entire offense. Without him, Purdy appeared hesitant, and the unit became predictable. Against Philly’s secondary, the 49ers can’t afford to go one-dimensional—if Pearsall plays, the margin for error expands.
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Belichick’s bombshell highlights the 49ers’ resilience amid injuries, but Thursday’s practice news suggests they’re turning the corner at the perfect moment. Nothing’s locked in, but the difference between the Week 18 version and a fully healthy squad is night and day. With Williams trending up and Pearsall progressing, San Francisco might just unleash their best against the Eagles. Sunday will tell the tale—will the Niners capitalize on this momentum and Belichick’s subtle vote of confidence in their fight?
