The 49ers are in for another rough season in 2019 if ESPN’s early score projections are accurate. Mike Clay posted the projections Friday, and San Francisco manages just a 4-11-1 record – a disaster for them in every sense.
It should first be noted that these score projections are, with a few exceptions, all within one and three points. They’re numbers pulled from an equation and simulations ESPN puts together, and since most teams are so evenly matched, score projections in May are difficult to put a lot of stock into.
On the other hand, this provides a valuable reminder that expectations for the 49ers can’t get too high.
They’ve dramatically improved their roster at key spots like their pass rush and the receiving corps. There’s also an expectation they’ll be healthier. Jimmy Garoppolo lining up under center for 16 games alone should help them improve on their four wins from a season ago.
Logic says four wins is way under what San Francisco’s total should be this season, and it stands to reason they may hit that mark by the halfway point in the year.
The opposite of this outcome is very much in play though. The 49ers could wind up in the postseason if a lot of things break their way this season. If they stay healthy, generate more turnovers, and improve in the red zone, they’re likely looking at 9 or 10 wins.
Getting things to go their way has been tough the last few years though, and ESPN’s score projections are a not-so-subtle reminder of how quickly and easily a season can get derailed.
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