NFL analyst Greg Cosell is worried the San Francisco 49ers could get exposed on defense during this Sunday’s NFC Championship Game.
On the latest edition of the “Ross Tucker Football Podcast,” Cosell pointed out the biggest flaw for the 49ers. It turns out they’ve struggled to get off the field on third down.
“The Niners are not very good in third down defense,” Cosell said. “A lot of people might not be aware of that. They’re in the bottom third of the NFL in third down defense. The Packers concerted quite a bit on third down.”
Cosell isn’t wrong about San Francisco’s struggles on third down. Only five teams were worse than the 49ers in that category during the regular season.
Another issue for the 49ers is their inability to overwhelm opposing quarterbacks. Despite all the talent on their roster, the pass rush just hasn’t produced at an elite level.
“They did not get a lot of pressure on the quarterback, which has been a little bit of a problem for them given the players they have. Chase Young has not looked particularly good since he’s been a 49er.”
The Niners defense is not what you think it is.
Allow @GregCosell to explain: pic.twitter.com/83fOrEFrOP
— Ross Tucker Podcast (@RossTuckerPod) January 27, 2024
All that being said, the 49ers are favored over the Lions for this weekend’s game.
If the 49ers can contain the Lions’ rushing attack, they’ll be in great shape. And if not, it could be a long night for Kyle Shanahan’s defense.