SF 49ers: 5 Dolphins weaknesses Kyle Shanahan must expose
By Peter Panacy
No. 1: SF 49ers must target Dolphins’ Noah Igbinoghene early and often
From Miami’s perspective, rookie cornerback Noah Igbinoghene is probably in a bit too high over his head over the first four weeks.
Igbinoghene, the 2020 first-round pick, has gotten the start the past two weeks yet has been a major liability for head coach Brian Flores’ defense.
San Francisco 49ers
And other teams are taking notice.
Despite already seeing 141 coverage snaps and 223 coverage snaps, Igbinoghene has arguably been the biggest liability for Miami’s defense and has been given a Pro Football Focus overall grade of 32.6, while his pass-coverage grade is a mere 10th of a point higher than his overall mark.
To put things into perspective, PFF has charged him with 14 receptions allowed on 22 targets for 280 yards, three touchdowns with opposing quarterbacks owning a 146.8 passer rating when targeting him.
If the SF 49ers want to win on Sunday, going after Igbinoghene when he’s in the slot would be a prime opportunity.
A favorite to watch here would be a player like wide receiver Deebo Samuel, who’d have a favorable matchup against a struggling rookie, working directly into his favor after appearing for his first game this season last week after suffering his offseason foot injury.
If this is the matchup, look for Samuel to go off.
Next. 49ers' 5 biggest disappointments over first quarter of 2020. dark
The SF 49ers and Dolphins kick off on Sunday, Oct. 11 at 4:05 p.m. ET from Levi’s Stadium.