Niner Noise
FanSided

Top 5 standouts from 49ers’ 23-17 preseason loss to Colts

By Peter Panacy

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - AUGUST 25: Alfred Morris #36 of the San Francisco 49ers runs with the ball against the Indianapolis Colts in the first quarter of a preseason game at Lucas Oil Stadium on August 25, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - AUGUST 25: Alfred Morris #36 of the San Francisco 49ers runs with the ball against the Indianapolis Colts in the first quarter of a preseason game at Lucas Oil Stadium on August 25, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /
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INDIANAPOLIS, IN – AUGUST 25: Alfred Morris #36 of the San Francisco 49ers runs with the ball against the Indianapolis Colts in the second quarter of a preseason game at Lucas Oil Stadium on August 25, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN – AUGUST 25: Alfred Morris #36 of the San Francisco 49ers runs with the ball against the Indianapolis Colts in the second quarter of a preseason game at Lucas Oil Stadium on August 25, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /

No. 1: Running Back Alfred Morris

Well, this is a no-brainer. Just look at what Alfred Morris’ numbers would equate to if jokingly stretched out over the course of an entire season:

Not bad for a 29-year-old back who was a free agent in Week 1 of the preseason.

With runners Jerick McKinnon (calf) and Matt Breida (shoulder) out until the regular season, Morris certainly helped his cause to land on the 53-man roster this season. And considering the different skill set he offers to Kyle Shanahan’s ground attack, it seems to be a wise move keeping Morris around beyond the preseason.

After all, Morris merely managed 84 yards on 17 attempts — an average of 4.9 yards per carry. No big deal, right?

That third spot on the running back depth chart remains up for grabs heading into the Niners’ final preseason game on Thursday against the Los Angeles Chargers. It’s feasible Shanahan gives Morris some more looks during that contest.

dark. Next. 49ers vs. Colts: Preseason Week 3 grades, notes and analysis

But if Shanahan and the 49ers are convinced Morris belongs on the roster, they might hold him out of the game, which would be a pretty good sign the veteran tailback will be available in Week 1 of the regular season.