San Francisco 49ers vs. Philadelphia Eagles: Last Minute Spread and Predictions

The San Francisco 49ers are very capable of beating the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 4.

With lingering injuries to Eagles quarterback Michael Vick, and a defense that was just pummeled by the New York Giants, things don't look bright in Philadelphia.

It is the second straight loss for the Eagles, and they simply cannot handle a third.

The 49ers, who are traveling across the country for the second time in as many weeks, won't make it easy. Despite playing terrible offensively so far this year, the 49ers are still a 2-1 team.

This game, although expected to be ugly at times, should be fun.

Where: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, Pa.

When: Sunday, October 2, 1 p.m. ET

Watch: FOX. DirecTV 710

Over/Under: 43.5

The 49ers and Eagles average 49 points between them. Philadelphia has the potential to erupt for points at any time though, whereas the 49ers have been one of the league's worst units all season long.

The Eagles are in need of a bounce-back game, but the 49ers won't make things easy.

The line is set at 43.5 points for a reason and it'll be a close call. I would lean towards avoiding it, but if you must make a play, hope Michael Vick figures things out, scores points in bunches and hits the over.

Spread: Eagles -9.5

This is a lot of points to lay for a team coming off a grueling division loss. The 49ers have also yet to be beaten by the spread (2-0-1). It is another tough call, especially considering the 49ers have to travel across the country.

If Vick isn't healthy, or even goes out of the game again, 9.5 is almost too many points. But, the Eagles are riding a two-game losing streak and cannot afford a third loss in conference. 

49ers' Key Injuries

Frank Gore, RB - The all-purpose running back is skeptical about his chances to play this week. There have been conflicting reports cropping up, but as of right now it is a toss up.

Michael Crabtree, WR - The former No. 10 overall pick in the NFL draft has been a disappointment this season as he battles a foot injury. He is expected to play though.

Eagles' Key Injuries

Michael Vick, QB - Hand, head, body, mind. You name it, its hurting Vick. The fragile QB is going to start, but could easily be knocked out of the game with another big hit.

Jeremy Maclin, WR - Vick's No. 2 target, the second-year wideout is battling a hamstring injury but should also be able to take the field.

Fantasy Big Plays

Kendall Hunter, RB - If Frank Gore doesn't get a chance to play against the league's 31st-ranked rush defense, the ball will end up in Hunter's hands. The rookie running back has quickly become a fan favorite and will be a factor in the regardless of Gore's availability.

LeSean McCoy, RB - He's a must-start every week, but the Eagles will need him early and often if they want to keep Vick standing upright. Expect early touches, late touches and a plethora of dump offs that won't expose Vick to being in the pocket too long.

Keys to a 49ers' Win

Running the football. As stated earlier, the Eagles are the league's second-worst rush defense. The 49ers, however, are one of the league's worst rushing offenses. A lot of that has to do with Gore's inability to make plays even when healthy, and that has to change this week.

Alex Smith stands no chance against the Eagles' secondary if they can't draw their attention with the run game.

Keys to an Eagles' Win

Protect Michael Vick. This is even more important for the long term than just this one game. Vick needs to stay on the field for this football team to win. There is no legitimately serviceable backup that can handle this team, and they need to find a way to minimize the hits Vick takes on a regular basis.

Prediction

Eagles 31, 49ers 14