No. 5: Center Weston Richburg
Run blocking had been a small problem for San Francisco’s offensive line over the team’s first two preseason games. But all that changed against Indianapolis.
For the first time this preseason, newly acquired running back Alfred Morris managed to see some field time (more on him later). And while Morris was a major contributor to the 49ers offense Saturday, he received some excellent support up front.
Especially veteran center Weston Richburg.
Richburg logged a 91.8 run-blocking grade during the game, according to Pro Football Focus (free subscription required) and was regularly opening up lanes in the middle of the Colts run defense.
San Francisco’s entire starting offensive line looked sharp in the loss and was one of the reasons the 49ers offense was so effective moving the ball in the first half. And the efforts deservedly drew praise from Jimmy Garoppolo:
Centers are an integral part of Kyle Shanahan’s offense, and it’s appearing as if Richburg is finding his niche at precisely the right time.