49ers vs. Texans: 5 biggest challenges facing San Francisco in Week 14
By Peter Panacy
No. 3: The Texans Secondary
San Francisco 49ers
Houston might be a bit banged up on both sides of the ball, but the 49ers are still going to have to take advantage of a pretty good defense.
Albeit, one that’s been exposed by the Texans’ lack of offensive punch.
Two players to watch here are Houston safeties Andre Hal and Marcus Gilchrist, who have very solid Pro Football Focus grades of 82.9 and 81.2, respectively.
Hal is more of the ballhawk this season, which is to be expected from a free safety spot. His three interceptions lead the team, so one wouldn’t be shocked to see the Niners not look in his direction.
But here’s a way San Francisco might go about tackling this particular problem. Jimmy Garoppolo’s accuracy, combined with wide receiver Marquise Goodwin’s 99 receiving yards in Week 13, is likely going to force Houston to respect the deep threat. That’s Goodwin’s forte.
Over-the-top coverage likely pulls Hal away from many of the underneath throws — slants, hooks, crossing routes, etc. — which Garoppolo also worked with well last week.
Goodwin’s numbers might take a slight hit, but we could easily some of the other role receivers, not to mention slot wideout Trent Taylor, make an impact.