Opposing defenses have their hands full while going against the San Francisco 49ers offense. Every player, from tackle Trent Williams to wide receiver Deebo Samuel, poses a physical threat. Tight end George Kittle's passion for run-blocking a defensive end mirrors his enthusiasm for hauling in a deep touchdown pass from quarterback Brock Purdy.

This mindset contributes to the 49ers' defensive preparation during practices. Defensive coordinator Steve Wilks, reflecting on his early days with the team, shared a conversation he had with Samuel about the wide receiver's blocking mentality.


"If we don't block, we don't get the ball," Samuel conveyed to the coach.

This mindset readies the offense to outmuscle most opposing defenses. For the 49ers defense, practicing against such receivers has equipped them to handle whatever challenges an opposing offense dishes out.

"Well, I think it's extremely unique in how our guys block," Wilks said. "I was very impressed with that when I first got here. We get a lot of good work going against those guys in OTAs, in training camp."

Obviously, players unwilling to block on offense won't remain on the roster that long. Led by MVP candidate Christian McCaffrey, the 49ers rank third in total rushing yards, with Monday night's opponent, the Baltimore Ravens, topping the list.

"So, I think there's a certain culture that Kyle has created that it's not just about catching a football," Wilks continued. "You can see it throughout this team, very unselfish individuals. You go back to [WR Brandon] Aiyuk on that play against Seattle, I believe it was, where he went down there and made that block inside the five. Just a very unselfish play. Those guys prepare us for every game and every week."



The 49ers defense has been struggling with tackling in recent weeks. Pro Football Focus credited the unit with 16 missed tackles against the Cardinals, marking their highest total of the season. The defense has accumulated 42 missed tackles over the last three games.

"This is going to be a very disciplined football game," Wilks stated regarding the Ravens and the key to slowing down their offense. "A lot of times you see talent on both sides of the ball, but it's a team that's real disciplined in their assignments. ... So, we've got to do a great job communicating on every snap as we did today (in practice) and yesterday and be very detailed in our assignments."

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