San Francisco 49ers: Game-by-game predictions for the 2019 season

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TAMPA, FL – NOVEMBER 25: Running back Matt Breida #22 of the San Francisco 49ers is brought down by free safety Isaiah Johnson #39 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after an 11-yard run in the second quarter of the game at Raymond James Stadium on November 25, 2018 in Tampa, Florida. San Francisco 49ers (Photo by Will Vragovic/Getty Images) /

Week 1: @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Tampa Bay was 5-11 last. That wasn’t a side effect of injuries or poor scheming (although both were involved), they just aren’t a very talented team.

A couple of seasons ago, early in Jameis Winston‘s career, it seemed like Winston was poised to bring the team to relevance. Last season, Winston didn’t take any steps forward and, in fact, had to wrestle his starting job back from Ryan Fitzpatrick.

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The Buccaneers have surrounded Winston with an impressive array of weapons. Mike Evans — one of the five best receivers in the NFL — highlights the group, but Chris Godwin, O.J. Howard, and Cameron Brate are all good targets.

Luring Bruce Arians out of retirement to be head coach should help as well.

On paper, the 49ers’ questions in the secondary would seem to spell trouble. But, the Bucs have one of the worst offensive lines in football. San Francisco’s defensive line should feast at the line of scrimmage.

I’ve always been a big fan of Todd Bowles, especially as a defensive coordinator. Fifth-overall pick Devin White will be a monster in Bowles’ 3-4 defense.

Still, the team is switching schemes and that transition tends to have some growing pains. Most importantly, even after adding White and Shaquil Barrett in free-agency, there just isn’t much defensive talent.

If Garoppolo struggles in Tampa that should be a big red flag for 49ers fans. The 49ers should roll over Tampa comfortably if they are going to have a successful season.

Prediction: W 31-13 (1-0)