49ers vs. Panthers: What Week 2 Loss Tells Us About San Francisco
By Peter Panacy
The Offensive Line is Notably Improved
Not all elements from the 49ers’ Week 2 loss were bad.
San Francisco’s offensive line is, far and away, better than the product that was fielded a year ago at this time.
The Niners did allow two sacks on Sunday, which combined with Week 1, is the total for 2016 so far. A year ago at this time, the 49ers had already allowed six.
Pro Football Focus‘ best San Francisco grades all went to the offensive line — a clean sweep:
"With all five starting lineman earning the top grades on offense for the 49ers, the strength of this offense is evident. A mauling run blocker with athleticism to match, LT Joe Staley is one of the NFL’s best O-linemen. He allowed just a solitary hurry in 42 dropbacks. Combined, the starting offensive line allowed just six pressures. In addition, four of the five up front earned run-blocking grades of at least 74.6. An offense severely lacking talent can at least be confident of its production in the trenches."
San Francisco has faced two very good front-seven defenses in back-to-back weeks. And the O-line has been a major reason the offense has been able to generate anything on that side of the ball.
Next: 49ers Are Hurting for Playmakers