49ers and Cardinals Gear Up for Season Finale with Backup Players in Spotlight

The San Francisco 49ers and Arizona Cardinals are wrapping up their seasons this Sunday in Glendale, Arizona. Both teams are out of playoff contention, but this matchup still offers a chance for backups and rising stars to step into the spotlight.

49ers Turn to Joshua Dobbs

With Brock Purdy sidelined due to a right elbow injury, the 49ers (6-10) are handing the reins to quarterback Joshua Dobbs. Dobbs, who played for the Cardinals last season, has shown he’s ready to step up. Against the Lions on Monday, he completed three of four passes for 35 yards and rushed for a 7-yard touchdown in relief.

49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan praised his backup quarterbacks:
“Both Dobbs and Brandon Allen have been great all season. They prepare like starters every week, and that’s exactly what we need.”

San Francisco’s roster has been hit hard by injuries. Key players like George Kittle, Deebo Samuel, and Nick Bosa are all out, leaving the 49ers leaning heavily on their depth for this final game.

Cardinals Face Backfield Woes

The Cardinals (7-9) are facing a similar injury bug, especially in their running game. James Conner and rookie Trey Benson have been placed on injured reserve, leaving Michael Carter and DeeJay Dallas to lead the charge.

Carter has made the most of his opportunities, racking up 88 rushing yards and 41 receiving yards over the past two games. Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon is confident in Carter’s ability to step up:
“Carter’s going to get a lot of carries. He’s earned the chance to take on a bigger role.”

Key Players to Watch

1. Joshua Dobbs (49ers)
   Dobbs has a golden opportunity to prove his skills in a starting role. How he handles this moment could shape his future in the league.
2. Kyler Murray (Cardinals)
   Murray has been hot and cold this season but is coming off a 321-yard performance against the Rams. He’s eager to finish the year strong:
   “Ending the season on a high note is huge for me and the team. It sets the tone for the offseason.”
3. Trey McBride (Cardinals)
   McBride, a rookie tight end, had a breakout game last week with 12 catches, 123 yards, and his first career touchdown. He’ll be a key target for Murray again this week.

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Last Time They Met

The 49ers and Cardinals faced off in October, with Arizona pulling off a narrow 24-23 win. The Cardinals were riding high back then, but since their midseason surge, they’ve lost five of their last six games.

What to Expect

This game is more about pride and opportunity than the scoreboard. Shanahan emphasized the importance of balancing the roster:
“You can’t just use this as a practice game for younger guys. We need to field a competitive team.”

For Gannon and the Cardinals, the focus is on playing with energy and effort, especially on defense:
“Transition defense is all about urgency, and we need to bring that on Sunday,” Gannon said.

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Final Thoughts

While this game won’t impact playoff standings, it’s a chance for backups and young players to prove themselves. For veterans like Kyler Murray, it’s about ending the season on a positive note.

Can Joshua Dobbs shine in his starting role, or will Kyler Murray and the Cardinals defend their home turf? Find out Sunday in the season finale!