What Jimmy Garoppolo’s Injury Means to 49ers Playoff Odds

The San Francisco 49ers are on the cusp of a playoff berth in the NFC, but they are dealing with a serious injury to quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo. 

Garoppolo is dealing with a Grade 3 sprain of the ulnar collateral ligament in his thumb. However, that has not completely ruled him out against the Houston Texans in Week 17. 

San Francisco controls its own destiny heading into the final two weeks of the regular season, as wins over the Houston Texans and Los Angeles Rams would put the 49ers in the playoffs. 

Our own Donnavan Smoot broke down how they can clinch a berth in Week 17 with a little help from the Carolina Panthers. 

“For San Francisco to clinch a spot, it would need a win and a Saints loss or tie. If the Niners happen to tie, they would need a loss or tie from the Saints, Vikings and Falcons.”

While the Texans played spoiler last week and upset the Los Angeles Chargers, WynnBET Sportsbook still has the 49ers as massive 12.5-point favorites and -700 on the moneyline to get the win. 

However, nothing is guaranteed in the NFL, and rookie quarterback Trey Lance could still be thrust into the starting role in Week 17 if Garoppolo is unable to go. 

Essentially, Jimmy G’s injury puts some uncertainty with the 49ers in these next two contests. Is that enough for the Philadelphia Eagles or New Orleans Saints to lock up two of the final spots? Or, could the Atlanta Falcons or Minnesota Vikings find their way if the 49ers stumble?

Garoppolo’s injury casts a bit of doubt on the team’s outlook, but given their Super Bowl odds at WynnBET (+3500), it seems like the 49ers should be able to get into the postseason this year.