The San Francisco 49ers faced off against the Arizona Cardinals in a crucial season finale that turned out to be a game of highs and lows. Ultimately, the 49ers ended their 2024 season with a disappointing 6-11 record after losing to the Cardinals with a score of 47-24. Fans were hoping for a different outcome, but the game illustrated the struggles the team faced throughout the year.
Game Highlights and Performances
The showdown on January 5, 2025, in Arizona had several notable moments. One of the standout players for the winning team was Josh Dobbs. He started as quarterback and completed 29 of his 43 passing attempts, amassing an impressive 326 yards. Dobbs threw two touchdown passes, further showcasing his potential as a leader on the field. He also contributed by rushing for a touchdown himself, making him a key figure in the Cardinals’ victory over the 49ers.
What’s Next for the 49ers?
With this loss, the 49ers will be picking No. 11 overall in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft, which may offer them a chance to turn things around next season. As the team looks forward to the draft, fans are eager to learn about potential new players who could help boost the 49ers back to winning ways. There is hope that the team can make strategic decisions to improve their performance.
Injuries and Ejections Add to the Drama
One dramatic moment during the game was the ejection of wide receiver Jauan Jennings. Jennings was thrown out for unsportsmanlike conduct after engaging in two physical altercations with Cardinals defenders. He had received penalties on both occasions, which led to him being removed from the game. This is not how Jennings wanted to finish a season where he had accumulated 975 receiving yards, just shy of the coveted 1,000-yard mark.
What Fans are Saying
Fans were vocal about their disappointment, especially considering the potential Jennings was showing throughout the season. Many are hopeful that next season will present a fresh start for the team, while others express frustration with the inconsistent performances. Ohio-based sports analyst Jess Root noted that the 49ers showed promise earlier in the season but ultimately struggled down the stretch. This inconsistency is something that the coaching staff will need to address during the offseason.
Looking Back on the 2024 Season
The 49ers’ final game marked not only the end of a tough season for them but also concluded the Arizona Cardinals’ year as both teams missed the playoffs. The NFC West standings showed the 49ers in last place, which is a sobering fact for a team that has experienced significant success in previous years. Meanwhile, the Cardinals, though also eliminated, managed to pull out some remarkable performances during the year which kept fans engaged.
Table of Key Game Stats
| Player | Team | Passing Yards | Touchdowns | Receptions | Receiving Yards |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Josh Dobbs | Cardinals | 326 | 2 | – | – |
| Jauan Jennings | 49ers | – | – | 7 | 52 |
| Patrick Taylor Jr. | Cardinals | – | – | – | 109 |
The game concludes not just a match, but a season filled with ups, downs, and lessons learned for the 49ers as they look forward to a chance for renewal in the next NFL season.