4 ways Trey Lance, 49ers attack weak Texans team in Week 17

No. 2: 49ers have to control the clock

In the 49ers’ most impressive performances this year, they have controlled the clock and dominated the time of possession.

Against the Rams in Week 10, the Niners held the ball for 39:03 while Los Angeles held it for just 20:57. San Francisco did again in Week 12 against the Minnesota Vikings and won in dominating fashion.

Nearly doubling the opposing team in the time of possession is always a recipe for success in the NFL.

But going up against the Texans offense this week that ranks in the bottom five in nearly every category presents a mouth-watering opportunity. The Texans are a team that struggles to move the ball down the field against most defenses and should struggle against San Francisco, too.

Houston ranks dead last in total first downs this season and has found little success in running the football as of late. Sure, the Texans ran all over a Chargers team that ranks last in rushing defense and has allowed over 2,000 total rushing yards on the season. But the 49ers are a much tougher matchup, and although their run defense isn’t as fierce as before, this group shouldn’t be taken lightly.

Expect a lot of Houston 3-and-outs in this one.