SANTA CLARA, Calif. — As the San Francisco 49ers enjoy their bye week following an uplifting victory against the Dallas Cowboys, the next few days could prove crucial for the remainder of their season.
Star running back Christian McCaffrey, who has been out all season due to Achilles tendinitis, is set to intensify his rehabilitation and may rejoin the team as soon as next week, pending a positive recovery.
Coach Kyle Shanahan provided an update, stating, “He’s had no setbacks, so it looks like we’re on track. But he’s going to push hard this week during our time off and simulate some practice scenarios for himself. Assuming everything goes well, we could have him back for practice next week.”
McCaffrey’s potential return would significantly boost the team, overshadowing their recent 30-24 win over the Cowboys, which brought the 49ers to a .500 record of 4-4. This puts them in a favorable position to make a strong push as they enter the second half of the season.
This marks the third consecutive year that the 49ers have had a Week 9 bye, and they hope to replicate the successful pattern observed in the last two seasons, where they finished with a combined 16-2 record in the second half after a 9-7 start.
In their recent game against the Cowboys, the 49ers displayed glimpses of their former prowess, amassing 223 rushing yards, while their defense performed well with two interceptions of Dak Prescott. Additionally, the special teams played without the blunders that had plagued them in previous losses.
Tight end George Kittle acknowledged the team’s challenges but emphasized the significance of the recent win. “We wish our record was better, but that’s the reality. Securing this win is vital, and it boosts our confidence. We have areas to improve, myself included, but we’re making strides in the right direction.”
### What’s Working
Takeaways have been a strong point for the 49ers. Defensive backs Ji’Ayir Brown and Deommodore Lenoir secured interceptions, marking the third consecutive game in which San Francisco has had at least two INTs—a feat not accomplished since 2014.
### What Needs Attention
However, finishing games remains an issue. The 49ers relinquished 10-point leads against the Rams and Cardinals late in those games. Against Dallas, they entered the fourth quarter leading 27-10 but had to fend off a rally, ultimately winning by just six points after allowing quick touchdown drives. Although the defense secured the win by preventing a final push from the Cowboys, it highlighted the need for improvement in keeping leads.
### Stock Up
Running back Isaac Guerendo made notable contributions on offense. The fourth-round rookie shined in the second half while Jordan Mason was dealing with a shoulder injury, carrying the ball 14 times for 85 yards and scoring his first career touchdown. He effectively managed the clock by staying in bounds after a key third-down conversion.
### Stock Down
On the flip side, Guerendo faced criticism for his blocking. His failure to pick up a blitz from DeMarvion Overshown nearly resulted in a dangerous play, putting quarterback Brock Purdy at risk late in the game. While Purdy held on to the ball, Guerendo’s blocking may be scrutinized going forward.
### Injuries
Mason is slated to be re-evaluated after the bye, having aggravated a shoulder injury that had previously sidelined him. Wide receiver Deebo Samuel (rib, oblique) will also be reassessed. Additionally, linebacker Dee Winters is currently in concussion protocol, while wide receiver Chris Conley (hamstring) is considered week to week. Cornerback Renardo Green (ankle) is labeled day-to-day, and wide receiver Jauan Jennings (hip) is expected to return post-bye after missing two games.
### Key Number
In their last game, the 49ers rookies accounted for 179 yards from scrimmage. Guerendo contributed 102 yards while Ricky Pearsall added 77. This marked the sixth-highest combined yards from scrimmage by rookies for the franchise since the merger, with the top record being 255 yards earned solely by Hall of Famer Jerry Rice on December 9, 1985, against the Rams.
### What’s Next
Looking ahead, the 49ers will travel to Tampa Bay following their bye on November 10.