Post Game Analysis From Week 2

Week 2 proved to be a disaster for the San Francisco 49ers from all three facets of the game. It took me awhile to digest the loss and think about how to professionally critique them instead of completely trashing on them. 

They started off the game great with the blocked punt but couldn't capitalize on it. Russell Wilson threw many signs of foreshadowing In the first half. He explicitly kept handing the ball off to Marshawn to take attention off of himself to see if the defense would fall asleep on him. Ahmad Brooks made a great tackle on him but after that no other attempt at the QB really stood out at me when he became vulnerable as a runner. But that really burned us in the second half as Russell Wilson decided to keep the ball on the option and gained big yards. 

Colin Kaepernick struggled proving to be his career worst start (both career lows are at Seattle). He never caught his stride during the game and the defense did a great job breaking his rhythm. He had one interception that was out of his control which was a tipped ball but the other two were solid pro football interceptions. The Seahawks, likewise the Packers, stuffed our run game which is something that needs to be established for this offense to be successful. 

My bold prediction was no where close to becoming a reality. Although, I was impressed my his tackling this game which improved from week 1. 

Seattle really showcased their secondary this game by completely shutting down the 13 reception 200 yard receiver in Anquan Boldin. He didn't catch his first pass until 50 minutes into the game. Richard Sherman also added to the hurt by having an exceptional pick leaping up to grab it. 

The 49ers also had some key injuries that game. One that must be attended to quickly is the broken ankle of Ian Williams who will now miss the remainder of the season. Hopefully Dorsey is ready to suit up and go for our fierce run stopping defense. Vernon Davis also left the game with a strained hamstring and he is still listed as day to day. Eric Reid, one of the key pieces in the defense with two picks already and some hits for the highlight real left the game with a concussion. These are three key injuries that need to be resolved ASAP. 

Other than that the 49ers have nothing to worry about. It's still early in the year and this week we are back home facing Andrew Luck and the Indianapolis Colts. We must get back into full gear in order to beat this solid team. They are definitely not a team we are going to just roll over. 

Keys to Beating the Seahawks

Last week showed to be an impressive win for the San Francisco 49ers. But there were some areas of the game that needed some improvement. With that being said. Here are some keys to capturing a win in Seattle:

1. Don't let crowd noise be a factor:

Let's not forget that the "12th Man" up in Seattle are trying to set a Guiness Book of World Record by having the loudest crowd noise at a sporting event.the 49ers almost got caught a few times for delay of game. Kaepernick has to be loud with his pre snap calls and get ready to snap the ball quick. 

2. Keep Russell Wilson in the pocket:

Wilson is a dangerous passer when he rolls outside of the pocket and it's even worse when the defense is gambling on whether or not he's going to run or pass the ball. So the 49er defensive ends will have to make smart choices on when to pursue on the QB. 

3. Throw off the Seahawks Secondary:

The Seahawks have a fierce group of safeties and DBs. It's going to be tough for Anquan Boldin to have a repeat from last week's performance. This means that other 49er receivers must step up to fluster the Seahawks defense. 

4. Finish Through Tackles:

Last week was a rough week for one person, Nnamdi Asomugha. He had a rough week covering the slot receiver and finishing his tackles. He didnt look comfortable at all and was outshines by the rookie, Eric Reid. This week I challenge Nnamdi to show the Niner Faithful he's not going to be a busy this year by having a breakout performance in a big time game. 

5. Don't let Marshawn Loose:

Last week Marshawn Lynch struggled by only rushing for 50 yards. Don't think this will be a weekly output by this explosive back. The 49ers can't afford to take this guy lightly as he can erupt in any minute. The last thing the 49ers need is to have the forecast as raining skittles. 

6. Colin Kaepernick has to Stay Hot:

Colin Kaepernick opened a lot of viewers' eyes last week by showcasing more of his arm. When the option and the run game weren't so effective he was able to bail out the offense by throwing for 400+ yards. He did an excellent job by looking off the defenders and pump faking to slow them down as well. He has to keep this up if he wants to avenge his week 16 loss from a year ago. This will be one of the toughest defenses he will be facing all season long so he has to be geared up and ready to go to get a victory this week. 

My Bold Prediction:

Nnamdi Asomugha has a huge game and has 11 tackles, 1 interception, and 1 forced fumble. 

Keys to winning game 1

The 49ers are poised for another big year and here are some points to key on in order to beat the Cheeseheads in week 1:

1. Stop Aaron Rodgers':

Aaron Rodgers knows he has something to prove after last years Playoff defeat. By stopping Aaron Rodgers doesn't necessarily mean we need to pick him off 6 times. All it means is to get in his head. Our front 4 need to get through the O-Line and fluster the QB. Hurry the QB and knock him around and it will definitely play in our favor today. 

2. Watch out for the 2nd dimension:

The Green Bay organization went all in when they drafted former crimson tide running back Eddie Lacy. They did this for a reason, by trying to add that dynamic back they've been looking for for the past few years. Key in on that today as Eddie Lacy is poised for a big game as Green Bay's sleeper. 

3. Big game from the group of unknowns:

Our wide receiver core has been battered up and is not at it's full potential yet. Kyle Williams is just like Eddie Lacy as the 49ers' wild card. He knows what happened two years ago and today is his day to somewhat heal the hearts of the Niner Faithful. 

4. Don't forget that the game is 4 quarters:

The 49ers are known for holding back when they have a big lead. Today if we are up we have to keep stepping on their throats. Don't let the out foots off the gas pedal and the defense can't play off and be soft. 

5. Convert red zone chances:

We must improve our red zone percentage if we want to have another big season. We can't settle for field goals  because are offense is too lethal to leave points on the board. 

6. Stop the plethora of receivers:

The secondary will be challenged today as they must keep Jordy Nelson, Jermighael Finley, James Jones, and the rising star, Randall Cobb. Of course they'll have their receptions, but we can't have those turn into big plays. 

If the 49ers execute these 6 keys then there shouldn't be a reason for failure today. Lets Rock the Stick for the last season opener at Candlestick Park. 

My Bold Prediction:

Kyle Williams has a huge game and finishes with 8 receptions, 108 receiving yards and 2 touchdowns.