3 ways 49ers contain Seahawks QB Russell Wilson in Week 10
By Peter Panacy
No. 3: 49ers Must Neutralize Tyler Lockett
The Niners should take a page out of the New England Patriots’ playbook: remove an opponents’ top weapon and force someone else to make big plays.
For Russell Wilson, that weapon is wide receiver Tyler Lockett. And if you’re unsure just how crucial Lockett has been for Wilson’s efforts this season, chew on this from Pro Football Focus’ Scott Barrett:
In order for a quarterback to record a perfect passer rating (158.3), they need:
— Scott Barrett (@ScottBarrettDFB) November 4, 2019
- 77.5+ Comp%
- 12.5+ yds/att
- 11.875+ TD%
- 0 INTs
Russell Wilson when targeting Tyler Lockett (since Week 1 2018):
- 85.3% Cmp%
- 12.7 yds/tgt
- 11.765 TD%
- 0 INTs
Passer Rating: 158.0
The Seahawks typically feature Lockett in the slot, meaning him versus 49ers nickel cornerback K’Waun Williams will be a matchup to watch in Week 10. But it extends beyond just the one-on-one coverage, as Lockett has enough speed and separation abilities to mandate double and, at times, triple coverage.
So, if that means the Niners need to shade a safety, like Jimmie Ward, over in Lockett’s direction, so be it. Even if the side result would be opening up more dangerous opportunities for Seattle’s other top receiver, D.K. Metcalf.
Lockett already has 59 receptions for 767 yards and six touchdowns on the season. However defensive coordinator draws up San Francisco’s game plan, Lockett needs to be the focal point in order to Wilson to utilize his other weapons.