The San Francisco 49ers were able to maintain their perfect start to the 2019 NFL season with a successful two-game road trip. They have now returned home to host the Carolina Panthers in Week 8.
There is no question that San Francisco's success thus far can largely be attributed to their prowess on the defensive side of the ball. This group has emerged into one of the most formidable in the league and they solidified that notion with a 9-0 shutout victory over the Washington Redskins in Week 7.
Although the defense has proven more than capable of carrying the 49ers to victory, they will need the offense to start putting up some more points on the board. This week's matchup against a high-powered Panthers offense could very well be the week they are forced to do just that.
With arguably the best running back in the league and a dominant defensive front-seven at their disposal, Carolina is certainly equipped to hand San Francisco their first loss of the season. Here are two major x-factors for San Francisco in order to keep that from happening.
Fred Warner, Linebacker
It is no secret that the 49ers defense is in the midst of quite the resurgence. With all the notable names in this group, not much has been said about linebacker Fred Warner emerging as the leader and central command center in just his second year in the NFL.
Warner is now the primary signal-caller of a defense that is allowing the second-fewest total yards (223.5) and points (10.7) per game this season. His versatile skill set in defending both the run and the pass has helped him emerge into one of the most promising, young linebackers in the league.
He now faces his stiffest test in trying to contain running back Christian McCaffrey. Although San Francisco has found a way to neutralize every running back they have faced so far, they have yet to go against one of Christian McCaffrey's caliber.
Warner will be tasked with taking on an integral role in helping maintain McCaffrey and his success could determine whether or not the 49ers are ale to win this game.
Jimmy Garoppolo, Quarterback
With the defense clicking on all cylinders, quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo has largely taken on the role of game manager for this run-heavy 49ers offense. Unfortunately, he has still largely underwhelmed under center after throwing for seven touchdowns and six interceptions through six games.
San Francisco has established a recipe for success that involves them dominating the time of possession while the defense keeps the opposition out of the end zone. However, that could prove to be much more difficult against a Carolina offense that is putting up the fifth-most points per game (27.7).
As a result, this may be the week Garoppolo is forced to make something happen with his arm in order to counter any points scored by the Panthers. The 49ers made quite the investment in Garoppolo to make him their franchise quarterback and even provided him with another weapon in wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders ahead of the trade deadline.
He will need to prove he is capable of taking over when the offense needs him to.
Follow Us
Subscribe