The San Francisco 49ers played their final game of the 2024 season against the Arizona Cardinals on January 5, 2025, but it was a game filled with drama and disappointment for 49ers fans. The team lost the matchup 47-24, finishing the season with a 6-11 record. One of the most talked about moments from the game was when wide receiver Jauan Jennings was ejected for unsportsmanlike conduct after not one, but two fights on the field.
What You Need to Know
The game had importance beyond just the final score; it was a chance for both teams to establish their places as they looked toward the offseason. Unfortunately for the 49ers, this game showcased the challenges they faced throughout the season. With the loss, San Francisco will select eleventh overall in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft, a difficult pill to swallow after their disappointing record.
A Touch of Drama
During the game, Jennings was involved in two confrontations with the Cardinals’ defensive backs. The first incident was with cornerback Starling Thomas, prompting offsetting penalties. But things heated up again when Jennings clashed with Sean Murphy-Bunting, leading to both being ejected from the game. This incident occurred with just over six minutes left in the first half, leaving the 49ers without one of their key offensive players.
Player Performances
Despite the loss, a few players stood out. Josh Dobbs, who started at quarterback for the Cardinals, threw for 326 yards, completing 29 of his 43 attempts. He also ran for one touchdown himself, making various plays throughout the game to enhance Arizona’s performance. On the other side, Jennings had a decent first half, catching seven passes for 52 yards before his ejection.
Injuries and Challenges
The game was not without its challenges for the 49ers already battling injuries. Deebo Samuel did not play due to an injury he suffered earlier in the season, which forced Jennings to step up significantly. Unfortunately, Jennings’ ejection not only hurt the team’s chances in the game but also kept him 25 yards short of achieving a personal milestone of 1,000 receiving yards for the year, finishing instead with 975.
Looking Ahead
As the dust settles on the 2024 season, both the 49ers and Cardinals look toward the future. For the 49ers, questions linger about how they can improve and turn things around next season. The upcoming NFL Draft will be crucial for their rebuilding process. Meanwhile, the Cardinals will also examine their performance, with key questions about the stability and future of their quarterback, Kyler Murray, who has been a topic of discussion throughout the season.
Final Thoughts
The matchup between the 49ers and Cardinals was not just about the play on the field, but also the emotions and stories that unfolded. There is a sense of urgency for both teams to recalibrate and focus on the offseason as they gear up for what they hope will be a more successful 2025. For the fans, it is a moment to reflect on the ups and downs of the season while hoping for brighter days ahead.
