[Goose]

I don't know. Goose may be right from a "rational" standpoint that the game doesn't mean much because the teams will likely play again in the playoffs, but from an emotional perspective, this game is very meaningful. Everyone coaching and playing will have to manage their emotions and not make too much of a big deal about it, so they don't psyche themselves out over it. But I'm guessing Jed York, John Lynch, the front and back office all are feeling this game is epic in importance.

I absolutely agree this game is meaningful. It will be psychologically more difficult to beat the Eagles next time if you can't do it this time. OTOH, I also agree that the Niners are going to manage their emotions because 1) It will help them play better, and 2) the "rational" fact that this game isn't the playoff game where they indeed must win. Professional players understand this. Yes, they want to win, but no, the outcome isn't "pivotal" or "decisive", or even "epic". The next one in the playoffs would arguably be all those things. IMO the players (on both teams) will largely keep that difference in mind. The fans are however another story :-).

[Goose]

I don't know. Goose may be right from a "rational" standpoint that the game doesn't mean much because the teams will likely play again in the playoffs, but from an emotional perspective, this game is very meaningful. Everyone coaching and playing will have to manage their emotions and not make too much of a big deal about it, so they don't psyche themselves out over it. But I'm guessing Jed York, John Lynch, the front and back office all are feeling this game is epic in importance.

I absolutely agree this game is meaningful. It will be psychologically more difficult to beat the Eagles next time if you can't do it this time. OTOH, I also agree that the Niners are going to manage their emotions because 1) It will help them play better, and 2) the "rational" fact that this game isn't the playoff game where they indeed must win. Professional players understand this. Yes, they want to win, but no, the outcome isn't "pivotal" or "decisive", or even "epic". The next one in the playoffs would arguably be all those things. IMO the players (on both teams) will largely keep that difference in mind. The fans are however another story :-).