SF 49ers schedule: Too-early ranking of 5 easiest games of 2021

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San Francisco 49ers defensive end Arik Armstead (91) rushes Detroit Lions center Frank Ragnow (77) Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 5: The Lions could be facing the SF 49ers with a familiar face as head coach

Last matchup: September 2018 — SF 49ers 30 Detroit Lions 27

Rumors are flying more than airplanes at this time of year, as NFL teams try to figure out ways to improve their coaching staff and roster. The SF 49ers are at the forefront of whispers as teams like the Lions start asking about some coordinators to be their next head coach.

Niners defensive coordinator Robert Saleh is one of the leading candidates to take over a head coaching gig, and the state of Michigan hasn’t been too shy about their interest.

If Saleh decides to leave and venture off to Michigan, he’ll be taking on a team that finished 2020 with a 5-11 record and could be making a big decision about quarterback Matthew Stafford.

Detroit is one of those teams you might forget about since it hasn’t done a whole lot in the regular season and playoffs. And it’s not for a lack of talent either. They’ve had Stafford since 2009, while also being blessed with wide receiver “Megatron” Calvin Johnson for many years.

But unfortunately, their last winning season was in 2017 while their last playoff appearance was a Wild Card loss in 2016.

A healthy SF 49ers team can easily run laps around the Lions who seem to be in a constant rebuild mode. The Lions ranked near or at the bottom in both offensive and defensive categories, making this matchup a huge mismatch.

Whether Saleh heads to Detroit or not, San Francisco fans can chalk up a “W” next to this opponent. A healthy Niners squad will prove too much to handle.