Levi's Stadium will witness a showdown between two teams that got off to a perfect start to the 2025 NFL season. The Arizona Cardinals (2-0) visit the San Francisco 49ers (2-0) in a game where, in addition to the divisional rivalry, the undefeated record is at stake. Both come with solid arguments, although with very different styles.
Arizona Cardinals: Resilience and Efficiency
The Cardinals are motivated after beating the Carolina Panthers 27-22. Kyler Murray led the offense with 220 yards and a touchdown, although he also suffered an interception. His ability to extend plays and find receivers like Trey McBride -who averaged more than 13 yards per reception- is being key in this start.
The ground game, while inconsistent, provided balance. James Conner led the way with 34 yards on 11 attempts, evidence that Arizona relies more on aerial plays and Murray's mobility. Collectively, they average 114 yards on the ground per game and 23.5 points, figures that place them in a competitive range in the league.
Defensively, the team has shown cracks against the pass, allowing more than 250 air yards per game. However, against the run they have been solid, limiting their opponents to just 78 ground yards on average. The key to this game will be containing Christian McCaffrey and avoiding big plays in the secondary.
San Francisco 49ers: Balance In All Phases
The 49ers are coming from beating the New Orleans Saints 26-21 in a game where they showed their offensive versatility. Mac Jones, who took the controls, threw for 279 yards and 3 touchdowns, showing a reliable version despite doubts about the possible participation of Brock Purdy.
On the ground attack, Christian McCaffrey continues to be the driving force. Although he was limited to 55 yards against the Saints, his presence forces opposing defenses to constantly adjust. In addition, receivers like Jauan Jennings provide dynamism with deep receptions, opening spaces for other targets.
San Francisco's defense maintains its identity: they allow just 17 points per game and are among the best secondaries in the league with less than 170 air yards allowed per game. The challenge will be to control Murray, preventing him from improvising with his legs and extending long series.
Keys to the Match
Before giving a prognosis, it is worth reviewing the factors that may define the outcome:
● Arizona aerial game vs. San Francisco secondary: Murray is dangerous when he improvises, but faces a defense that boasts the sixth-best against the pass.
● McCaffrey vs. Arizona's front seven: the 49ers' running back can break the game open if he finds holes. Arizona has allowed less than 4 yards per carry, but has not faced a running back of McCaffrey's caliber.
● Discipline and penalties: the Cardinals have committed 21 penalties in two games; giving away yards against such an efficient opponent can be lethal.
Quick comparison
| Statistics (average) | Cardinals | 49ers |
|---|---|---|
| Points per game | 23.5 | 21.5 |
| Total Yards | 284.5 | 364.0 |
| Permitted aerial yards | 255.5 | 166.0 |
| Points allowed | 17.5 | 17.0 |
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Final Forecast
Both teams come in with confidence, but the difference is in the 49ers' defensive solidity and ability to execute at key moments. San Francisco looks more complete and balanced, while Arizona relies too much on Murray to move the offense.
Forecast: Victory for the San Francisco 49ers in a close game, with an estimated score of 24-17.
MLB
