Joshua Dobbs has been named the starting quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers in their season finale against the Arizona Cardinals, stepping in for the injured Brock Purdy. Coach Kyle Shanahan made the announcement, citing Dobbs' mobility as a key factor given the team's struggling offensive line, which will feature several backup players.

Despite the 49ers' disappointing 6-10 season, Dobbs' experience, having started games for both the Arizona Cardinals and Minnesota Vikings, gives the team hope. His career stats include a passer rating of 77.5 and a solid rushing ability, which could be crucial in the upcoming game.

Brock Purdy's season ended on a disappointing note as the San Francisco 49ers fell to the Detroit Lions 40-34. Purdy, who had previously shown promise in his first full season as a starting quarterback, struggled in the second half, throwing two interceptions before leaving the game due to a right elbow injury. Coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed the injury is a bruise and nerve inflammation, with no long-term damage expected, which is a relief for the 49ers as they look ahead to the offseason.

Despite a stellar start to the season, where Purdy finished fourth in MVP voting, his performance waned as the season progressed, particularly against Detroit where he made critical mistakes leading to turnovers. Shanahan praised Purdy's resilience and work ethic, noting his determination to improve despite the setbacks. With Purdy likely sidelined for the season finale, the coach has yet to decide on the starting quarterback for the upcoming game against the Arizona Cardinals, considering either Brandon Allen or Joshua Dobbs for the role.

The 49ers have shown flashes of brilliance, particularly in their first-half offense, scoring touchdowns on their first three drives against Detroit. However, they have struggled to generate turnovers, holding the league's lowest total since returning from their bye week. Rookie wide receiver Ricky Pearsall had a standout performance with eight catches for 141 yards, while kicker Jake Moody faced criticism for missing two field goals and an extra point.

Injuries continue to plague the 49ers, with key players like defensive end Leonard Floyd and linebacker Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles listed as day-to-day. The team is also managing offensive line issues, as Spencer Burford is not expected to return this week. The 49ers will aim to finish the season on a high note against the Cardinals, but they face challenges both on and off the field.

The Detroit Lions are poised for a pivotal matchup against the San Francisco 49ers as the 2024 NFL season approaches its climax. With an impressive record, the Lions are set to face the 49ers in a crucial game that could solidify their position for the NFC's No. 1 seed. The Lions, under head coach Dan Campbell, are determined to bring their best effort to this contest, emphasizing that they will not rest any starters despite the looming showdown against the Minnesota Vikings the following week.

The 49ers, however, are struggling with injuries that have plagued their season. Their offensive line is particularly affected, with three key starters—Aaron Banks, Spencer Burford, and Colton McKivitz—on the injury report. While Banks and Burford are out of practice, McKivitz has been limited. This situation highlights the challenges the 49ers face as they attempt to finish the season strong.

Regardless of the outcome of the upcoming game, the Lions and Vikings matchup next Sunday will be critical for determining the NFC playoff picture. The Lions currently hold a tiebreaker advantage over the Vikings, which could come into play if both teams finish with identical records. A loss for the Lions against the 49ers would complicate their playoff standing, especially with the Vikings looking to capitalize on any opportunity.

In an interesting twist, Teddy Bridgewater is set to serve as the emergency quarterback for the Lions. Fresh off a state championship win with his high school team, Bridgewater's return to the NFL adds an intriguing storyline to the game, although he is not expected to see significant action. As both teams prepare for this critical Week 17 clash, the stakes could not be higher for playoff positioning in the NFC.

The San Francisco 49ers are making significant roster changes ahead of their matchup against the Detroit Lions, particularly in their offensive line due to a series of injuries. Undrafted rookie center Drake Nugent has been elevated to the active roster and is set to make his NFL debut during the highly anticipated 'Monday Night Football' game at Levi’s Stadium. Nugent, a former standout at Stanford, has been brought in to help bolster the 49ers' offensive line, which has been severely impacted by injuries.

In a move to address their depth, the 49ers placed guard Aaron Banks on injured reserve. Additionally, they activated rookie linebacker Tatum Bethune, who had been sidelined for the past five games due to a sprained knee suffered in Week 11 against the Seattle Seahawks. The team also elevated defensive lineman Alex Barrett from the practice squad. The recent injury list for the 49ers includes notable offensive tackles Trent Williams and Jaylon Moore, both of whom have been placed on injured reserve, alongside Spencer Burford, who has been ruled out for the game.

To further strengthen their offensive line, the 49ers signed several new players, including Austen Pleasants, Charlie Heck, and Matt Hennessy, to the active roster. Nugent’s collegiate career includes 42 games played with 39 starts, where he earned recognition as an All-Big Ten selection and contributed to Michigan's national championship victory in his final season.

The San Francisco 49ers' decision to draft kicker Jake Moody in the third round last year was aimed at solidifying their kicking situation for the foreseeable future. However, Moody's recent performance has raised doubts about his reliability as he enters the offseason. After missing his sixth field goal in seven games, speculation is growing regarding the possibility of the 49ers seeking a replacement or at least some competition for him next season.

Head coach Kyle Shanahan has publicly supported Moody, attributing some of his struggles to a high ankle sprain sustained earlier in the season. Shanahan expressed confidence in Moody, stating, "I still feel the same about him, that I believe he is going to be our guy." He acknowledged that Moody's inconsistency since returning from injury is likely linked to the sprain, suggesting that with time, Moody could regain his previous form.

Moody began the season strongly, making all six of his attempts in the opener and finishing with an impressive 13 of 14 before the injury. However, since his return, he has faced challenges, including missed field goals in critical moments. Despite these setbacks, Moody remains optimistic, citing his experience with both highs and lows throughout his career. He emphasized the importance of staying consistent and not altering his approach in the face of adversity.

Looking back at his rookie season, Moody had a mixed performance, successfully converting 21 of 25 field goals but faltering in crucial situations, including a missed game-winner against Cleveland and missed attempts in playoff victories. He did redeem himself in the Super Bowl, making three field goals, two of which were over 50 yards, showcasing his potential under pressure. Shanahan believes in Moody's capabilities, stating that he has demonstrated his talent at various points, particularly at the start of this season.

In addition to Moody's situation, the 49ers are dealing with injuries to key players. Left tackle Trent Williams has been placed on injured reserve due to an ankle injury, while linebacker Dre Greenlaw will not return this season after a calf injury. Other players, such as Spencer Burford and Isaac Guerendo, are also managing injuries but may return to play soon. The 49ers have taken steps to bolster their offensive line by signing Matt Hennessy and Charlie Heck, as they navigate a challenging season.