49ers' potential defensive X-factors vs. Lions in NFC Championship game
These 49ers key defensive elements could be the difference-makers against the Lions in order to advance to the Super Bowl.
By Scott Conrad
49ers defense on Time Warner
Another star linebacker for the 49ers had a solid performance against the Packers last week. Fred Warner put up seven tackles including one for a loss, as well.
On the season, he had 132 tackles and 2.5 sacks. Warner also had four forced fumbles and four picks, which were good enough to statistically place in the top 10 in the NFL.
Warner also has three additional years of playoff experience with San Francisco. This is key as the Niners face a young Lions team where many of their athletes played in their first playoff game last week.
Look for a talented Warner (and the rest of the 49ers front seven) to pressure the quarterback, help contain the run game, and disrupt routes for Detroit.