4 reasons why 49ers embarrassingly lost Monday night to Vikings
By Peter Panacy
Reason No. 2 Vikings contained Christian McCaffrey on the ground
Despite all those receiving weapons at Brock Purdy's disposal, San Francisco is still a run-first team and had done so quite successfully in Weeks 1 through 5.
In Weeks 5 and 6, however, both the Browns and Vikings ensured that All-Pro running back Christian McCaffrey wouldn't be the game's true X-factor.
McCaffrey did damage, yes, including two touchdowns (one receiving and one rushing) despite playing with a slight oblique tear. But, for the most part, Minnesota prevented McCaffrey and the 49ers rush attack from getting set up and going.
In total, the Niners mustered a mere 45 rush yards from the All-Pro on 15 attempts, an average of 3.0 yards per carry.
Perhaps it was the absence of All-Pro left tackle Trent Williams (ankle), and perhaps also missing All-Pro wide receiver Deebo Samuel (shoulder) meant the Vikings could hone in on McCaffrey without as solid a supporting cast.
Apparently so.