San Francisco 49ers urged to unleash blitzing duo Winters and Stout for playoff push
The San Francisco 49ers face a challenging road as they navigate the final stretch of the regular season. With key defensive players like Nick Bosa, Fred Warner, and Mykel Williams unavailable, the team’s chances of reaching their peak performance seem dim. However, defensive coordinator Robert Saleh has potential strategies to bolster the team’s defense as they prepare for the playoffs.
The Case for More Blitzing
Currently, the 49ers rank dead last in the NFL in blitz rate, sending an extra rusher only 16.6% of the time, according to Pro Football Reference. While this conservative approach may be overshadowed by similar teams like the Houston Texans and Green Bay Packers, who also utilize low blitz rates, the 49ers’ pressure statistics tell a different story.
Despite their low blitz frequency, teams in the bottom eight still manage to generate pressure over 20% of the time, with some even exceeding 26%. In contrast, the 49ers are struggling with a mere 14.8% pressure rate, indicating a pressing need to increase this statistic by about 6%. This translates to roughly two additional pressures per game, a target that may only be achieved through more aggressive blitzing.
Utilizing Winters and Stout
To address these pressure issues, Saleh should consider deploying rookies Dee Winters and Upton Stout more frequently in blitz packages. Both players possess skill sets that are well-suited for disrupting opposing quarterbacks. Their athleticism and instincts could provide the spark the 49ers’ defense desperately needs.
Personnel Adjustments in the Secondary
In the secondary, the 49ers have made some notable personnel changes, particularly in their dime package. After benching Jason Pinnock and Marques Sigle following Week 7, Pinnock has since taken on a significant role, logging 115 snaps compared to Sigle’s mere 10. Unfortunately, Pinnock has struggled in this capacity, allowing completions whenever he is on the field.
Sigle, on the other hand, has demonstrated better potential as a box player, and it may be beneficial for the coaching staff to transition him into the dime role. This adjustment could allow him to find a niche where he can contribute effectively for years to come.
Injury Updates and Roster Reinforcements
As the 49ers look to strengthen their defensive lineup, they have recently welcomed new additions, including Tatum Bethune, Sam Okuayinonu, and Yetur Gross-Matos. However, the return of these players coincides with the loss of Renard Green, which somewhat offsets the team’s reinforcements.
Additionally, Darrel Luter faced challenges during a previous matchup against the Colts, but the return of Green should bolster the secondary. Integrating these new players into the lineup in their second week back could help the 49ers field their strongest defensive unit in recent memory.
As the playoffs loom, the 49ers must find ways to adapt and innovate on defense. Embracing a more aggressive blitzing strategy and adjusting their personnel could be crucial steps toward enhancing their competitiveness in the postseason.
