49ers Expose Playoff Weaknesses in These 3 Key Areas
The San Francisco 49ers recently faced a disappointing playoff defeat, concluding their season with a 41-6 loss to the Seattle Seahawks. This marked the second-largest playoff defeat in franchise history. In the aftermath, head coach Kyle Shanahan offered a measured take on the loss, acknowledging it as just that—a loss.
Identifying Key Weaknesses in the 49ers
The 49ers’ weaknesses were prominently displayed during their playoff run, particularly in three critical areas: team speed, interior offensive line, and secondary performance. Each element needs addressing in the upcoming season for the team to compete more effectively.
1. Need for Increased Team Speed
- Speed has become a pressing issue for the 49ers, evidenced during their last matchup against the Seahawks.
- Star players like Christian McCaffrey, George Kittle, Deebo Samuel, and Brandon Aiyuk showcased speed throughout the season.
- However, the statistics reveal that the team’s average top speed was only 12.81 miles per hour, ranking as the sixth slowest in the NFL.
The fastest player on the team, Jauan Jennings, reached a peak speed of 19.23 miles per hour. The lack of separation among receivers in crucial moments highlighted the need for a faster roster. This deficiency became apparent when the 49ers struggled against faster opponents like Saquon Barkley and Jaxon Smith-Njigba.
2. Upgrading the Interior Offensive Line
The 49ers also faced challenges in the interior offensive line, particularly against strong defensive tackles. In playoff games, the team encountered significant pressure, primarily from opponents like Byron Murphy and Jalen Carter. To improve this area, the 49ers may need to invest in new talent during the NFL Draft.
- Jake Brendel, the current center, is valuable but aging, and will turn 34 by Week 1 next season.
- Spencer Burford’s inconsistent performance at left guard raises concerns about his future in the starting lineup.
- Addressing these concerns with strategic draft picks is essential for the team’s offensive strength.
3. Strengthening the Secondary
The 49ers also require enhancements in their secondary. With only one standout player, Talanoa Hufanga, the defensive backfield is lacking depth. The playoff performance indicated that additional support in coverage is crucial.
- Competitors like the Seahawks and Broncos have notable blue-chip players, something the 49ers currently lack.
- Renardo Green and Deommodore Lenoir offer potential yet need more consistency to become reliable cornerbacks.
- The team should consider bringing in high-caliber players through the draft to strengthen the secondary.
To sum up, the San Francisco 49ers must address these strategic weaknesses moving forward. Focusing on enhancing team speed, upgrading the interior offensive line, and strengthening the secondary are essential steps to reclaim competitiveness in the upcoming season.
