SF enters Week 4 with Nick Bosa out and Brock Purdy limited by turf toe and a shoulder, while Brandon Aiyuk isn’t close to returning. The plan leans on Purdy’s quick rhythm, Christian McCaffrey’s workload, and steady targets in Ricky Pearsall and Demarcus Robinson to keep the offense afloat. The running game and short throws become crucial weapons as SF tries to grind out a win in Jacksonville.

Defensively, SF will lean on a broader pass-rush rotation to replace Bosa, applying smarter pressure on Trevor Lawrence without compromising coverage. Jacksonville can strike in bursts, so San Francisco must protect the ball, control the pace, and execute in the red zone to survive Week 4.

Ricky Pearol seized the moment as Brandon Aiyuk’s return slides further back, while Lynch’s update frames December as a realistic target for the star receiver. Pearol is already a clear focal point, with Purdy’s quick reads and Shanahan’s simple, high-execution two-minute script fueling a surgically efficient series that didn’t test the red zone. The game’s winner hinges on the line, McCaffrey’s motion-wrenching versatility, and Eddie Piñeiro’s eye for the kick, all while M. Jones steers the offense with tidy decisions and minimal risk.

The breakdown highlights a blueprint: pre-snap motion against a muddy arizona front, a precision inside-outread progression, and a masterclass in exploiting matchups with a two-minute rhythm. Dominic Puni and John Feliciano anchor the interior, while the staff uses the same playbook philosophy that defines Kyle Shanahan’s offenses: simple installs, flawless timing, and a willingness to lean into backs and receivers who can win quick, contested routes. It’s a win built on patience, protection, and timely execution in high-leverage moments.

Beyond the ball, the discussion touches on Aiyuk’s timeline and Pearol’s immediate fantasy upside, plus the Cardinals’ adjustments and the offense’s evolving identity with McCaffrey in motion. The draft of a playoff-friendly offense hinges on when Aiyuk returns and how Pearol continues to contribute as a chain-mover and big-play option, all under the watchful eye of Shanahan’s game plan and the 49ers’ offensive line progress.