San Francisco 49ers: Positional Progress Report for First Quarter of 2016
By Peter Panacy
Running Back
Thank goodness the 49ers have running back Carlos Hyde and he’s fully healthy. If not, well, this offense would be abysmal.
Hyde still ranks only 24th out of 49 qualifying tailbacks, per Pro Football Focus. And while this might have to do with some of the aforementioned problems, it’s clear he’ll remain head coach Chip Kelly’s pinnacle weapon when the Niners have the ball.
The former Ohio State standout is the team’s current leader in touchdowns (five) and is probably the lone player opposing defenses really have to worry about.
Fans are suddenly recalling the days of former 49ers great Frank Gore back in 2006 and 2007.
Up to Par
Having Hyde as the bell cow of the offense is fine for Kelly and Co. Nothing wrong with that.
And Hyde is answering with an average of 4.1 yards per carry. His elusiveness and patience, as seen below, still make him a noteworthy NFL running back.
Just imagine what Hyde’s numbers could be if San Francisco had a passing attack and a better run-blocking approach on the right side.
Needing Improvement
The weapons around Hyde are probably the biggest setback through four weeks.
Hyde does have one fumble on the year, and it was a costly one in Week 2. But his handling skills haven’t been problematic aside from that.
If there is an area of concern, it might be on short-yardage attempts. Hyde is averaging a mere 2.1 yards per carry on downs needing three or less yards.