The New Orleans Saints seemed to be on shaky ground before crushing the Cowboys last week to reiterate their standing in the NFC. The San Francisco 49ers took a step backward with a loss to the Panthers, but are still within striking distance of the Seahawks, who they get to face once more this season. The Niners will need to control the clock and pound away with the running game against an unheralded but stout Saints defense if they hope to slow down an offense that picked up 40 first downs against Dallas last week.
Week 11 NFL preview: 49ers vs. Saints
Drew Brees and the high-powered Saints offense host the reigning NFC champion 49ers in a game that could have serious playoff implications. Both teams need a win to help them catch Seattle: the Niners for the NFC West crown, and the Saints for the conference's top seed. Matt Ufford and the crew preview the game and make their predictions.