49ers vs. Cardinals: 5 players to watch for San Francisco in Week 8
By Peter Panacy
No. 2: Defensive End Solomon Thomas
It was actually somewhat nice to see defensive coordinator Robert Saleh increase the number of snaps on the inside for second-year defensive end Solomon Thomas in Week 7’s 39-10 loss to the Los Angeles Rams.
Playing an inside 3-technique is Thomas’ strength, not off the edge, where he simply doesn’t have the bend to effectively get into the opponents’ backfield.
If this trend continues, Thomas should have a favorable matchup against Cardinals right guard Daniel Munyer, who’ll likely fill in for veteran lineman Justin Pugh (questionable, hand) in Week 7.
Munyer, a backup, has played 90 total snaps this season. During his first start against the Denver Broncos last week, he allowed two sacks and four quarterback hurries — not exactly the type of production one would want to protect Cardinals rookie quarterback Josh Rosen.
The 49ers haven’t gotten much of anything from their outside pass rush this season. But the interior has been solid enough, at least in generating pressure. The sacks haven’t been there, but pressure is always a good thing.
Especially when, overall, Arizona’s offensive line ranks 23rd in pass protection entering Week 8, according to Football Outsiders.