Expects to play in NFC Championship
Not only was it difficult for Christian McCaffrey to find room to operate against the Dallas Cowboys’ fast and aggressive defense, he was dealing with a bothersome calf condition. McCaffrey played 44 of the 49ers’ 66 offensive snaps, and spent periods of time on the sideline in the second half with Elijah Mitchell taking over for the other 22 snaps.
McCaffrey confirmed the calf discomfort and expressed optimism he will be ready for the 49ers’ NFC Championship Game matchup against the top-seeded Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday.
“Nothing bad, all good,” McCaffrey said. (Matt Maiocco on Twitter)
Nerdy Football Analysis: It is worth noting that HC Kyle Shanahan told reporters Monday that McCaffrey and Mitchell (groin) are day-to-day. Mitchell has benefited from how often the 49ers are playing with the lead during their 12-game winning streak and handled more work than most thought was possible in the wake of the McCaffrey trade, but that workload could be put to the test against the Eagles this weekend. If CMC is a full-go for Philadelphia, he should be on the field for roughly 75 percent of the snaps.
