We’ve heard what a talented group of d-lineman the Niners have. Well, today is the day. Chiefs tackles are pedestrian at best. Their pro bowl guard is out. Niners must stop the run and pressure Mahomes with their 4 down. He kills blitzes.
So, key 1- stop the run. Contain the edges, they’ve got destroyed on outside runs in the playoffs.
Key 2 - pressure with 4 - someone besides Bosa nees to step up.
Key 3 - get off the field. They have been lousy on third down all year.
Offensively, flip it. They have to be able to run. Chiefs have been average against the run. Both Buffalo and Ravens went away from it too soon. And neither is as good a pure running team as Niners - as a lot of their rushing yards come from the QB. And Deebo. I think he will be key. Downfield passing may be difficult. Chiefs pressure well and their DB’s are terrific. So…
1. Run. They need at least 120 yards. Even more important- number of carries.
2. Deebo and CMac on screens, slants, drags and option routes. YAC is going to be important.
3. Convert. Ball control important in this one.
If they win at LOS (especially defense) and stay even in turnovers, they should win.
One last point. Special teams. Means nothing, but historically KO’s have not been good to SF in SB. Very first SB play was Amos Lawrence fumbling KO. They have given up 3 KOR TDs. Which brings me to this year. The kick coverage has not been good. Hopefully Moody gives them no chances. Speaking of Moody - I hope he’s corrected that fade……
So, key 1- stop the run. Contain the edges, they’ve got destroyed on outside runs in the playoffs.
Key 2 - pressure with 4 - someone besides Bosa nees to step up.
Key 3 - get off the field. They have been lousy on third down all year.
Offensively, flip it. They have to be able to run. Chiefs have been average against the run. Both Buffalo and Ravens went away from it too soon. And neither is as good a pure running team as Niners - as a lot of their rushing yards come from the QB. And Deebo. I think he will be key. Downfield passing may be difficult. Chiefs pressure well and their DB’s are terrific. So…
1. Run. They need at least 120 yards. Even more important- number of carries.
2. Deebo and CMac on screens, slants, drags and option routes. YAC is going to be important.
3. Convert. Ball control important in this one.
If they win at LOS (especially defense) and stay even in turnovers, they should win.
One last point. Special teams. Means nothing, but historically KO’s have not been good to SF in SB. Very first SB play was Amos Lawrence fumbling KO. They have given up 3 KOR TDs. Which brings me to this year. The kick coverage has not been good. Hopefully Moody gives them no chances. Speaking of Moody - I hope he’s corrected that fade……