The schedule for the San Francisco 49ers is about to get a lot more interesting as they are set to face an especially dangerous Baltimore Ravens squad. Lamar Jackson will be a major headache for them if left alone due to his outstanding skill set.
However, the 49ers have come up with a way to slow down the leading MVP candidate and come off as the victors in this important Week 13 duel. According to Niners Wire's Kyle Madson, the Niners have lined up wide receiver Richie James Jr. at quarterback during practice so the defense can get a feel of what stopping a speedster like Jackson would take.
Putting James in the quarterback position is a terrific idea for the Niners. He's one of the best returners available, leading the league in punt returns (30) and punt return yards (255). His kick returns are also decent at 13 returns and 245 yards.
His speed and elusiveness can at least partially mimic Jackson's running on the field. By putting him on that spot during practice, the defense should be able to react faster when he makes the decision to scramble out of the pocket.
However, there are limits to what simulations can do in terms of helping San Francisco prepare for Jackson.
First of all, Jackson is bigger than James as he stands at 6-foot-2 and 212 pounds. He can provide a decent stiff-arm when the situation calls for it, and his explosive speed is something that will still catch them off guard. This doesn't include the fact that he will still be throwing deep balls whenever possible, and his proficiency on those passes has taken a jump in 2019.
However, being somewhat prepared is better than being blindsided by his explosive speed. This should somewhat prepare the Niners and give fans an entertaining spectacle.
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