Quick Thoughts on the 49er’s Defense

By BayAreaFootball  |   Monday, August 17, 2009  |  Comments( 0 )

San Francisco 49ers
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Friday’s game against the Broncos gives 49er fans some promising things to look forward to in the regular season. Let’s go over some things:
The 49ers are turning into a ball-hawking defense. Last year, 49ers ranked 21st in the league in interceptions. It may be too early to tell, but the preseason game against Denver showed some solid ball skills by 49er defensive backs. Three different defensive backs intercepted Bronco passes, many of these came at critical times in the game. The 49ers also were also able to defend 10 passes, a number that currently leads the league.

One shouldn’t read too much into the lack of defense pressure. During the post-game press conference, Singletary commented that the pass-rush was "Nonexistent." Last year, the Niners' defense ranked near the middle of the league in sacks. This year that number should improve. The team’s leading tackler, Patrick Willis sat for the Broncos the game. Players have more experience in Singletary’s system and there have been numerous times where they claimed that they are starting to buy into his coaching.

Don’t make too much of their performance against the Broncos. Keep in mind that the Broncos featured a 6th ranked offense. The Broncos ranked number one in sacks allowed – 12 sacks for the entire 2008 season. Rookie tackle Ryan Clady gave up half a sack in his first season. The bay area showdown against the Raiders should hint more at the effectiveness of the 49er’s pass-rushing ability.
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