49ers vs Chiefs

[Auggie]

Monday pundits were pointing out the difference in offensive production between scripted quarters (1st half for the S.F.) and unscripted quarters (2nd half). There's a huge drop off for the 49ers this year. I've noticed it on the defensive side too.

Chief's receivers were interviewed following the Week 7 game vs K.C. and they said the 49ers defense was playing them very tight on the line in the first half, defending Mahomes' 5 to 10 yard dinks with effectiveness. 49ers even made an interception.

At halftime the Chiefs decided to target 15-20 yards downfield, figuring if S.F. was playing their receivers so tight they could blow right by them on the snap. That's exactly what they did. Mahomes feasted on open receiver after open receiver. It ended with a K.C. blow-out, 44-23.

Kyle Shanahan and DeMeco Ryans (Defensive Coordinator) are lauded for their units, and their first half production is indeed impressive. But in the second they're getting killed by other team adjustments.

This is really troublesome.

I think it's time for Shanahan to give up play-calling and for Ryans to coach from the booth.

Hat tip to the Kansas City Chiefs, Andy Reid, his staff, and the players. They out-thought and out-played San Francisco.

[Bobstandard]

1. True, but also, didn't they seem to give up?

The end of the third and entire fourth quarter it seemed the Niners either ran out of gas or gave up. Some notable exceptions, of course, but man oh man. It was hard to watch.

[Auggie]

2. They looked confused, perhaps totally lost, to me

Two important defenders were out with injuries. Maybe that added to the problem. Former 49er tight end Brent Jones pointed out the poor pass protection of the o-line, especially the right tackle, calling it average.

I don’t care how many great ball handlers there are on a roster. If the o-line can’t protect the QB it’s over.