Jimmy Garoppolo: Why new 49ers quarterback is making all the difference

Jimmy Garoppolo on Tape

There are three plays singled out from the 49ers’ win over Tennessee in Week 15, and a big thanks to former Niner Noise contributor, turned Niners Wire correspondent, Rob Lowder for putting these together.

We’ll start off on a 3rd-and-5 play in the first quarter, where the pocket around Jimmy Garoppolo will deteriorate, forcing the quarterback to evade pressure and extend the play.

Unlike his predecessor, C.J. Beathard, Garoppolo senses the Titans pass rush and effectively moves out of danger to his left. And throwing across his body, Garoppolo connects with wide receiver Trent Taylor for a key first down.

All off Garoppolo’s back foot. And the ball was placed perfectly.

Fast forward to the fourth quarter, and the Niners are backed up deep in their own territory. Coming off play action on 1st-and-10, Garoppolo hits rookie wideout Kendrick Bourne for a 54-yard gain:

What’s on display here? That’s easy… decisiveness.

Garoppolo anticipated Bourne getting open and made the quick-strike throw to hit the receiver at the best point — a time when Bourne would be open within the defense’s zone coverage.

And lastly, Garoppolo’s passing touchdown to tight end Garrett Celek:

This has the combination of the above two elements, plus the ability to showcase some creativity and red-zone prowess.

Those aren’t factors the 49ers enjoyed with either Beathard or former Niners quarterback, Brian Hoyer, under center.

So you’re hopefully understanding why the Niners offense is moving more efficiently with Garoppolo taking command of head coach Kyle Shanahan’s complex system.

And the stats back it up.