For weeks now we have been seeing 3 or more Smith passes batted down by defensive linemen. The opposing DL keys the drops of the OL and reads the set of the QB. If they read a quick pass they read the QBs eyes and jump up and block the pass. Smith's release point is high enough that his passes should not be blocked like the are. Also, by having these big guys constantly in his face clogging the passing lanes, his opportunties for quick releases are much more limited.
Today we say Philly demonstrate how to stop that; CUT BLOCK THE D-LINEMAN!!! Philly took advantage of the aggressive charge of the 49ers and just cut them down like they had a chain saw cut down trees.
McNabb had clear passing lanes all day because the 49er DL were getting cut down leaving no hands in McNabb's face. Now the next thing that happens, is if the DL is constantly getting cut, they slow down their charge, and that also leaves the QB with more time. It has been working that way for years.
The 49ers have NEVER used a cut technique all season long that I have seen. Smith, and before him, Hill, have been getting passes blocked. It is no surprise then that the OL has struggled so badly in pass protection. They are not being taught fundamental techniques, not only in pass protection but run blocking. I just don't believe all of these guys are junk. Good coaches develop players. Good players don't come from college fully prepped for the NFL.
Though the above example is just about cut blocking, there are others I could list as well. No matter who they draft, unless they get an OL coach who knows how to teach the game, they will continue to struggle.
EDIT: On two different occasions during the broadcast today, Johnson and then Siragusa, mentioned how effective Philly was in cut blocking. Stating the obvious.
[ Edited by dj43 on Dec 20, 2009 at 9:28 PM ]
