Steve Wilks has some familiarity with the San Francisco 49ers. The Cleveland Browns defensive coordinator spent last year as the head coach of the Arizona Cardinals. He saw the 49ers twice and knows what he's up against when it comes to offensive weapons like tight end George Kittle and running back Matt Breida.
The 49ers will host the Browns on Monday night at Levi's Stadium. Wilks spoke with reporters on Friday and discussed his next opponent, saying San Francisco has "weapons across the board."
You can watch the Wilks press conference below.
Some key 49ers-related notes from the 7-minute presser:
- Wilks called Kittle is "one of the best in the league." The 49ers tight end can make defenders miss out in space, making it difficult to game plan for him. Defenders have to treat Kittle like a receiver when the tight end finds space downfield.
- Wilks says quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo has looked good returning from his ACL injury and can make every throw. The defensive coordinator believes Garoppolo is smart with the football and doesn't force throws.
- Wilks was asked about rookie left tackle Justin Skule, who is making his second start in place of the injured Joe Staley. The defensive coordinator notes that the 49ers' offensive line has only allowed two sacks this year. Garoppolo also isn't holding onto the football long, which makes getting to him tougher. The Browns aren't just focused on the matchup against Skule.
"We've got to take advantage of all matchups across the board, and try to find different ways to get to the quarterback," Wilks said.
- Wilks loves the 49ers running backs and says they "don't miss a beat" when players are substituted in and out of the game.
- Kyle Shanahan does "a tremendous job" with his pre-snap play design, making it tough to recognize a pass play versus a run play. The 49ers will throw a lot of motion at defenders to try to get their eyes off their targets.
"This is going to be a great game for us from a point of eye discipline, making sure our eyes are in the right spot," Wilks said.