Levi’s Stadium Amazing Game Prediction
On a typical Friday afternoon, 49ers players wouldn’t expect to see a table full of water bottles, energy bars, and other hydration supplements as they exit the locker room. But this was no ordinary Friday. The sign on the table painted a clear picture: Sunday’s game against the Arizona Cardinals was going to be hotter than usual. The AccuWeather forecast predicted a high of 99 degrees, a temperature that could rewrite Levi’s Stadium history as the hottest game ever played there.
First Steps Against Heatwave
The 49ers took a few steps in anticipation of the heat. They first tried to get permission from the NFL to wear their all-white uniforms, a request that was unfortunately denied due to preseason rules regarding home uniform preferences. In response, they’ll be switching to their red throwback jerseys and white pants, hoping that a little change might provide some relief.
Coach Kyle Shanahan and the training staff emphasized hydration throughout the week, and many players are expected to increase their regular IV feedings on Sunday. Left tackle Trent Williams, who has already taken IVs twice this season, seemed uncomfortable with the heat, citing the off-seasons he spent in hot Houston.
Arizona Cardinals: A Commonly Hot Foe
The Cardinals, accustomed to Arizona’s triple-digit temperatures, are probably better prepared for the heatwave. Their coach, Jonathan Gannon, believes any advantage lies in a team that sees itself as one, expressing confidence in its heat transition.
More challenges for the 49ers
The heatwave isn’t the only obstacle the 49ers are facing. They will be without two starters (defensive lineman Yetur Gross-Matos and linebacker Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles) while receiver Chris Conley remains questionable. Five other players, including fullback Fred Warner (ankle) and George Kittle (ribs), are listed as questionable. Despite the injury and the weather, both Warner and Kittle expressed optimism about playing against the Cardinals.
The 49ers are looking at a challenging week ahead, not only with the heat to contend with but also a game against the Seattle Seahawks to prepare for just four days later. Despite the odds, the team remains focused on its immediate task – to win Sunday’s game.
