4 reasons why SF 49ers have no chance vs. Cardinals in Week 16
By Peter Panacy
No. 1: Mobile quarterbacks like Kyler Murray are tough for SF 49ers
While San Francisco’s defense has been admirably good this season in general despite the numerous injury setbacks, one of the constant struggles coordinator Robert Saleh’s unit has been containing and limiting mobile quarterbacks.
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This has partially been the case because of the relatively slow nature of the SF 49ers’ defensive front, long without edge rushers Nick Bosa and Dee Ford, who are out on IR with injuries. As a result, the defensive line is noticeably slower, and this has put much more pressure on linebackers Fred Warner and Dre Greenlaw.
Over the season, the Niners have given up a total of 348 rush yards to opposing quarterbacks, which ranks fourth most in the NFL entering Week 16.
Kyler Murray was a case study back in Week 1 with 91 rush yards and a touchdown. That’s a problem, especially considering he’s averaging 6.0 yards per scramble anyway.
The relative inability of San Francisco’s pass rush to get home on slower quarterbacks, paired with Murray’s elusive abilities make for what’s going to be a tough, tough challenge for the SF 49ers in Week 16.
Next. 5 reasons why 49ers were eliminated from playoff contention in 2020. dark
The Niners and Cardinals kick off on Saturday, Dec. 26 at 4:30 p.m. ET from State Farm Stadium.