3 49ers players who underwhelmed in Week 3 win over Steelers
The Offensive Line
Like I mentioned, the 49ers had five turnovers. Only two of them did not involve the offensive line in some regard. This may not be a single player, but no one played a perfect game on the O-line. The O-line, without its unquestioned leader in Joe Staley, did not have a particularly good game.
Like always, the run blocking was good, allowing the 49ers running backs to rush at a 6.2 YPC clip. The pass blocking, on the other hand, was not nearly as solid.
The stats won’t show it but that might have been Garoppolo’s best game as a Niner. Constantly stood in the pocket and made good throws with pressure in his face, was able to extend several plays with his feet, and threw an absolute dime for the game-winning TD. #49ers
— Jeff Deeney (@PFF_Jeff) September 22, 2019
Like Pro Football Focus’ Jeff Deeney said, Garoppolo was faced with constant pressure. He only had one sack, but Jimmy G dealt with eight QB hits and a hand in his face on any throw.
Just take a look at this interception by Steelers defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick:
.@minkfitz_21 making his presence known. pic.twitter.com/lM5kxfAJaN
— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) September 22, 2019
This throw is behind wide receiver Dante Pettis, but look at the instant pressure in his face. Garoppolo has to throw the ball early, to this result.
Beyond pass protection, center Weston Richburg had two tough snaps to Garoppolo, which caused two more fumbles. One was completely on Richburg; the other was a team failure.
The Steelers brought pressure early and often, but this defensive line is nothing compared to the Cleveland Browns with EDGE Myles Garrett. The 49ers offensive line better fix its pass-protection issues soon.