Once again Santa Claus has delivered a lump of coal to last year’s Super Bowl runner-up. As a result of its 29-17 loss in Miami, the 49ers were eliminated from playoff contention. HC Kyle Shannahan still ranks fourth in the NFL in play design. Coaching is not the problem. He is still one of the best–if not the best–in the business. Injuries have been the primary ailment. Player productivity has fallen from its astronomical 2023 figure (84.9) to a figure beneath the stratosphere (7.5). Special teams also have been a problem, particularly kicker Jake Moody, who has made only 76.7 percent of his field goals. Other than the Bengals, nobody has let more wins get away than the 49ers. But coaching stats still reflect a playoff team. Shanny is not going anywhere.

The Colts burned me on Sunday. I played UNDER 42.5. My play was based on the forecast that both Indy and Tennessee would run the ball. I expected around 70 to 75 rushing attempts. The teams attempted 72 runs. I prayed for turnovers and missed field goals. Anthony Richardson threw a pick in the red zone and each team’s kicker missed once. What I did not expect was Indy to average 6.5 yards per attempt on its 50 carries, which included two long shock TDs from RB Jonathan Taylor. Those lightning strikes put the Colts far in front and allowed them to play soft, prevent defense, which journeyman QB Mason Rudolph exploited. It happens. Rushing is the beta technology for moving the ball. When playmakers produce alpha productivity from beta technology, expect the unexpected on the scoreboard. But it is no reason to question the process.