From San Francisco 49ers On SI · · 1m 20s
49ers Have Bigger Problem Than Pass Rush
49ers run defense struggles despite pass rush focus.
In brief
49ers run defense struggles despite pass rush focus. San Francisco 49ers run defense ranks 24th in success rate but avoids big plays, forcing them to prioritize run defense over pass rush at trade deadline. Originally reported by San Francisco 49ers On SI.
Trade deadline near
As the San Francisco 49ers get closer to the trade deadline, many suggest adding a pass rusher.
Run defense issue
The 49ers run defense is the area San Francisco must pay attention to.
Edge rusher thin
The 49ers edge rusher room entered the year thin but got Mykel Williams back.
Interior linemen grades
Osa Odighizuwa has 66 pass rush grade and 32 run defense grade, per PFF.
Interior linemen grades
Gracen Halton has 72 pass rush grade and 53 run defense grade, per PFF.
IR status
C.J. West and Alfred Collins are on IR, the two interior linemen who were supposed to be run defenders.
Run defense ranking
The 49ers rank 4th in run defense EPA/play but 24th in success rate.
Run defense impact
Teams shift away from run because 49ers avoid big plays with Fred Warner and back end.
Future challenge
The 49ers will face a team that moves the ball and sticks to running the ball.
In short
San Francisco 49ers run defense ranks 24th in success rate but avoids big plays, forcing them to prioritize run defense over pass rush at trade deadline.
