Key Highlights
- The 49ers are refreshed following their bye week and could return defensive lineman Yetur Gross-Matos.
- The only real question heading into Week 15 is the MIKE linebacker spot.
- The Titans lead the NFL in 11 personnel usage at 73.2%, which could pose a challenge for the 49ers.
- The 49ers offense will utilize pre-snap motion to identify coverages, create mismatches, and angles in the run game.
- The Titans are dead last in intermediate defensive EPA, making it easier for the 49ers to pass in that portion of the field.
Pre-Game Preparations: 49ers vs. Titans
The San Francisco 49ers have a refreshing outlook as they prepare for their Week 15 matchup with the Tennessee Titans. Following their bye week, the team is set to welcome back defensive lineman Yetur Gross-Matos, who could provide much-needed pass rush support.
Defensive Lineup Adjustments
The return of Gross-Matos is a significant boost for the 49ers’ defense, which has been struggling this season. The team’s pass rush needs all the help it can get to disrupt Titans quarterback Cam Ward and potentially shut down the Tennessee offense.
Key Personnel Packages: Titans’ Strategy
The Titans are known for their creative use of personnel packages on offense, leading the NFL in 11-personnel usage at 73.2%. Two starting wide receivers, Elic Ayomanor and Chimere Dike, are rookies who have combined for only 64 receptions so far this season. Veteran Van Jefferson has added some stability with his 23 catches.
The 49ers will face a challenging task in containing these formations.
With the 11-personnel groupings used at a rate of 62.7%, they must be prepared to adjust their defensive strategy accordingly. Rookie nickel cornerback Upton Stout, who is expected to play a significant role, will need to excel both in run defense and coverage.
Titans’ Defense Struggles Against Motion
The Titans are particularly vulnerable when the 49ers use pre-snap motion, which Kyle Shanahan frequently employs. The 49ers rank as the highest users of motion in the NFL at 67.8%. This strategy is designed to create mismatches and angles that exploit weaknesses in opposing defenses. However, the Titans are second-worst against this tactic, allowing an EPA (Expected Points Added) of 0.18.
Passing Game Analysis: Intermediate Throws
The 49ers’ passing game excels at intermediate throws, ranking eighth in the NFL with an EPA of 0.52 on such passes. This could be a significant advantage against the Titans, who are dead last in defensive EPA for intermediate throws (0.71). Key players like George Kittle and Jauan Jennings should see successful opportunities to make plays.
MIKE Linebacker Uncertainty
The only real concern for the 49ers is the MIKE linebacker position, where Tatum Bethune and a new practice squad addition are both out. If neither can play against Tennessee, Curtis Robinson will likely start again. The 49ers will need to carefully manage this position throughout the week.
Conclusion
The upcoming match between the San Francisco 49ers and the Tennessee Titans presents a series of challenges and opportunities for both teams. While the 49ers’ offense is primed to take advantage of the Titans’ weaknesses, particularly in their defensive struggles against motion and intermediate passes, the defense will need to be on point with the return of Yetur Gross-Matos.
As Kyle Shanahan and Brock Purdy prepare for this crucial game, they must stick to their gameplan while monitoring the evolving status of key players. The 49ers have a strong chance to secure a victory if they can execute effectively in these critical areas.
