NFL Week 12: Panthers vs. 49ers Preview
Tonight wraps up Week 12 of the 2025 NFL season with an exciting matchup between the Carolina Panthers and the San Francisco 49ers. San Francisco stands as a 7.5-point favorite at home, with a total over/under of 49.5. Following the Buccaneers’ recent loss to the Rams, the Panthers have a chance to take the lead in the NFC South with a victory. Meanwhile, the Niners are vying for the last NFC Wild Card spot, so this game holds significant playoff implications.
Here’s a look at some of the best daily fantasy sports (DFS) plays for the upcoming showdown.
Christian McCaffrey, RB, San Francisco 49ers (FLEX $13,600, CPT $20,400)
McCaffrey put on a show last week against the Cardinals, racking up 81 rushing yards and 40 receiving yards, along with three touchdowns in a 41-22 win. That marked his third game this season with both rushing and receiving touchdowns, netting him a solid 32.6 fantasy points, which has surely thrilled DFS managers. Given his ability to excel in both running and passing roles—74 receptions and five touchdowns so far—it’s surprising he isn’t getting more MVP buzz. I mean, he’s a top-tier choice tonight if you’re looking for value.
Rico Doodle, RB, Carolina Panthers (FLEX $11,800, CPT $17,700)
For the Panthers, tonight could be a big chance for Dowdle to make his mark. He averaged about 100 scrimmage yards in last Sunday’s nail-biting 30-27 overtime win against the Saints. While it wasn’t a breakout game, it’s worth noting he has now tallied over 20 touches in three consecutive outings. Doodle has stepped up as a solid RB1 after taking over from Tuba Hubbard, and with his growing involvement, I think he’s definitely someone to consider for captain.
George Kittle, TE, San Francisco 49ers (FLEX $9,800, CPT $14,700)
Kittle seems to be getting back to his best, having scored two touchdowns against the Cardinals recently since his return from a hamstring injury. He’s been making an impact, too, accounting for 15 receptions and three touchdowns over the last two weeks. As he faces a Panthers defense that has shown some weakness against tight ends—where the average performance has yielded around 12.1 points—Kittle could offer great value if you’re looking to fill your lineup smartly.
Brian Robinson Jr., RB, San Francisco 49ers (FLEX $5,400, CPT $8,100)
Robinson managed just eight carries for 24 yards last week, but that was his best completion rate so far. He had scored in the two weeks prior, showing he can back up McCaffrey effectively. In fact, among running backs with 50 or more carries this season, he ranks well in both rushing efficiency and success metrics. So, you might consider him a worthwhile addition.
JaTavion Sanders, TE, Carolina Panthers (FLEX $5,000, CPT $7,500)
Quietly, Sanders has emerged as a reliable option in the Panthers’ passing game, catching all nine of his targets for 54 yards over the last couple of weeks. The matchup against the 49ers could be favorable for him; San Francisco has struggled against tight ends, allowing seven touchdowns to that position this season. Maybe tonight will see Sanders get his first touchdown of the year.
Kendrick Bourne, WR, San Francisco 49ers (FLEX $4,600, CPT $6,900)
Though Bourne has not been as explosive lately—after two impressive 142-yard games earlier this season—he’s still been making key contributions to the Niners’ offense. I wouldn’t be surprised to see him make some big plays in a crucial game like this one, making him an enticing option if you’re looking for a budget pick with potential upside.
