So many intriguing matchups for the 2012 49ers vs. the 2019 49ers:

- #1 O-line in 2012 vs. #1 sack team in the NFL + #1 pass DEF in 2019
- 2012 Prime Staley vs. Rookie Bosa
- 35 year old Staley vs. Justin + Aldon Smith
- Crabtree + Moss vs. Sherman

- Prime Vernon Davis vs. Fred Warner/Kwon Alexander
- Kittle vs. Willis/Bowman
- Mostert/Coleman/Breida vs. Willis/Bowman
- Shanahan’s offense vs. Fangio’s defense

As far as the QB matchup, although the 2019 49ers defense struggled a bit against mobile QBs, that pass rush would be too much for Kap. Plus, Sherman owned him. On the other side, I’d be nervous for Jimmy G with 35 yr old Staley trying to block Justin + Aldon

I do think Harbaugh & Roman’s running game with Kap & Gore would be a challenge for the 2019 defense. But Shanahan & Jimmy G would tear up the 2012 secondary *IF* he had time to throw. The speed on the 2019 team would be tough for 2012 besides Willis & Bowman

Out of all these matchups, my favorites would be Kittle vs. Willis/Bowman & Vernon Davis vs. Warner/Alexander. Also, the 2012 run defense was amazing. So the #2 rush offense in 2019 vs. that 2012 front 7 would be sick.

IIRC, during Harbaugh’s tenure, the 49ers defense had a 97% tackling rate after first contact. So they never missed tackles. So it could be tough for the YAC King’s Kittle & Deebo to make plays after the catch

Plus in 2012, the NFL rules weren’t as bad as they are now. So that 2012 team could smack the 2019 team without getting flagged. Imagine Kittle going over the middle with Bowman & Willis waiting for him

Sucks that this matchup will never happen but its really fun to think about. If I had to pick a winner, I’d say the 2019 49ers would come out on top. Although I’d probably be rooting for the 2012 team because of Gore, Willis, & Bowman.

@NinersNation can you retweet/ quote this thread to get other 49ers fans thoughts on a matchup between the 2012 49ers vs. the 2019 49ers? Thanks!