SF 49ers: 5 things that made Brandon Aiyuk so special in Week 3

No. 2: The SF 49ers passing attack will be deadly with Brandon Aiyuk’s understanding of zone coverage already at a high level

Normally, rookie wide receivers struggle to form a connection with their quarterbacks. One reason can be they don’t quite understand zone coverage and where they need to settle in between zones.

Brandon Aiyuk showcased his ability to understand where he needs to be in relation to where space can be found between zones.

Under eight minutes to play in the fourth quarter, the SF 49ers had a 3rd-and-8 on the Giants 48-yard line. Aiyuk was lined up in the slot to the left. The Giants were showing one high safety, pre-snap, however the safeties rotated to a two-deep look.

Kyle Shanahan was expecting this and called for Ross Dwelley to run a post route between the safeties. This meant the defender responsible for the middle of the field had to turn and run with Dwelley.

Aiyuk, who was running a crossing route, could settle down in the empty space created by Dwelley running the post route. As a result, Aiyuk made the catch for a 20-yard gain to keep the drive going.

The rookie receiver showed incredible recognition, as he recognized the open space created by Dwelley and immediately settled down in that space.