49ers X-Factors and Matchups to Watch in Week 1
According to those previously mentioned Pro Football Focus rankings, the 49ers outclass the Buccaneers on both the offensive line and within the secondary, although the second category is a bit too close to call a distinct advantage.
Yet San Francisco can take advantage of a few things on Sunday.
Buccaneers Pass Rush vs. 49ers Offensive Line
San Francisco’s O-line ranked 22nd in pass protection last year, according to Football Outsiders. Its starters unchanged from 2018, this unit hopes to see some improvement, especially with Jimmy Garoppolo under center.
The Buccaneers managed 38 sacks last season, which was tied for 18th. Todd Bowles’ play calling could change this ranking, too.
49ers Pass Rush vs. Buccaneers Offensive Line
Flipping the script, Tampa Bay’s O-line is easily more problematic than San Francisco’s. And the Niners boast a pretty good cast of pass-rushers, too:
The #49ers will be fielding five first-round picks (DeForest Buckner, Dee Ford, Arik Armstead, Solomon Thomas, Nick Bosa) against the #Buccaneers, whose O-line was ranked 24th by @PFF last July. #SFvsTB #49wz
— Peter Panacy (@PeterPanacy) September 5, 2019
Jameis Winston under pressure could be a regular thing Sunday.
Jimmy Garoppolo’s Rust
Jimmy Garoppolo wasn’t good in Denver in the preseason, but then he bounced back in Kansas City.
That said, Garoppolo saw just 49 total snaps between the two games — the only ones he’s had since tearing his ACL last year. Fortunately, he’ll be going up against what could be one of the more suspect secondaries in the league this season, which helps boost his stock and chances.
Both Teams’ Rushing Attack
Tiring out the opposing defense should be a primary objective for both Bruce Arians and Kyle Shanahan on Sunday. That means ball control and an effective rushing attack.
The 49ers hold a clear advantage here, as running back Tevin Coleman is familiar with the Bucs — he’s averaged 4.4 yards per carry in six career games against Tampa Bay — while fellow tailback Matt Breida‘s 5.3 yards-per-carry average ranked fourth best among qualifiers last season.
Peyton Barber, who figures to headline the Buccaneers ground game, averaged only 3.7 yards per carry a season ago.
Heat and Humidity
It’s going to be hot and humid in Tampa this Sunday, which necessitates defensive rotations and short stands.
The temperature is supposed to be 91 degrees at kickoff, with a humidity of 50 percent.
No wonder the 49ers are trying to prepare with this unique-looking humidifier:
As part of their preparation for the heat and humidity in Tampa on Sunday the #49ers have this sauna tent near the practice field. A few players say it can get up to 110 degrees in there. Team trying to acclimate before the opener. pic.twitter.com/6VQKEmtJho
— Nick Wagoner (@nwagoner) September 4, 2019