Originally posted by Hoovtrain:
Everyone runs the ball well in preseason though. Other than the LA game I don't recall them mauling anyone in the run game. From what people are saying, Brown and Tiller are just not very good run blockers. Seems to be the case. I'm sure some of it has to do with crappy QB play as well, but when it comes down to it I just don't think they are very good at run blocking.
It's the d@mned system. If there was a more traditional system with a FB, we'd be running all over people (with talent like Hyde). Right now, the RB has to face a D that knows there isn't a real receiving threat (at all), except for a slot who is playing short. That lets them close in, play 8 men short, and get to the RB. Now, if we threw in a FB (because our WR talent is too bad, even for Kelly's system), Hyde would have a fighting chance. Unfortunately, the TEs can't block, the WRs can't block, and no-one takes the passing game seriously. I'm surprised the team has been able to get the ground yardage it has so far this season.
The team needs to get back to a high percentage passing system, with a bruising, power-running FB to lead the HB and help block for the QB. I can't stand gimmicky systems like Kelly's. Niners need a consistent system, that isn't changed yearly, and need something that speaks to tradition around here (high percentage passing, short slants, yards-after-catch, multiple RBs in the backfield, and everyone able to catch).