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49ers vs. Panthers: 5 Ways San Francisco Can Win in Week 2

By Bobby Horne

Sep 12, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers running back Shaun Draughn (24) rushes against Los Angeles Rams strong safety T.J. McDonald (25) during the first half of an NFL game at Levi
Sep 12, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers running back Shaun Draughn (24) rushes against Los Angeles Rams strong safety T.J. McDonald (25) during the first half of an NFL game at Levi /
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Sep 8, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) leaves the field following the game against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos defeated the Panthers 21-20. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 8, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) leaves the field following the game against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos defeated the Panthers 21-20. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

Contain Cam Newton

One might be asking themselves, “how can the 49ers contain the reigning NFL MVP?”

It certainly is a tough task to complete, which is what makes Panther quarterback Cam Newton so good. It’s all about pressure.

The Niners must find a way to apply pressure on every down. Pressure in the pocket can fluster even the greatest of quarterbacks.

In Super Bowl 50, Newton was sacked six times and his play suffered because of it.

Against the Rams, the San Francisco pass rush was much improved compared to 2015. Rookie first-round selection DeForest Buckner led all NFL rookies in Week 1, according to Pro Football Focus:

Second-year defensive end Arik Armstead has also shown he can create pressure in the pocket.

If the 49ers can find a way to disrupt Newton throughout the game, it will give them a great chance at keeping the Panthers point total and offensive production down.

Next: Carlos Hyde Needs to Break 100 Yards Rushing