Originally posted by Pillbusta:
Originally posted by mayo49:
We were top 10 in run defense and that has disappeared these last 3 games. We're not as stout as we were with Soap and RJF. We have to get better or it's going to be a long season for the defense getting off the field.
It really hurts when you lose you starting NT to a questionable cut block week 2 his 1st game starting
True, but NT isn't on out there when the 49ers are in nickel, which is what they've been in for what seems like the majority of these first 3 games. So for example, when Seattle was in their 12 formation (1 RB, 2 TEs), the 49ers countered with nickel, 7 guys in the box: 4 LBs, 2 DL, and 1 CB (usually Rogers) in box. So it's 7 blocking 7, but it's 5 big OL, 2 big TEs, vs the Niners' 7, which again includes a CB. Safeties are of no help because they're both 15 yards off the ball. What's the answer...do you drop Whitner down closer for run support and put more pressure on CBs/Reid? I don't know, but Lord Fangio needs to figure something out, because right now the blueprint is put the 49ers in nickel and run right at them.