The San Francisco 49ers are approaching the final stretch of the season with renewed energy following their bye week. The team’s defense is set to receive a boost with the potential return of defensive lineman Yetur Gross-Matos, a much-needed reinforcement for a pass rush looking to enhance its impact as they head down the home stretch. On the offensive side, the unit is in relatively good health, aside from Brandon Aiyuk, with confidence high as they prepare for the last four games, including a critical playoff run.
Heading into Week 15, the most pressing concern is at the MIKE linebacker position. Both Tatum Bethune and a new addition from the practice squad were unable to participate in practice on Wednesday. If they remain sidelined, Curtis Robinson is poised to take the lead in the upcoming matchup against the Tennessee Titans.
As the 49ers prepare to face the Titans, there are a few aspects that could play to their favor. First, the Titans have heavily relied on a specific personnel package this season. Rookie quarterback Cam Ward has guided the team to lead the NFL in 11 personnel usage with 73.2%. This means they frequently utilize three-receiver sets featuring two rookie wideouts, Elic Ayomanor and Chimere Dike, alongside veteran Van Jefferson. Despite some recent standout performances from Dike, the trio has contributed a total of 64 receptions, with Jefferson adding 23.
The 49ers, who have often faced 11 personnel formations, do so at a rate of 62.7%, ranking seventh in the league. Rookie nickel cornerback Upton Stout is expected to play a significant role, as the 49ers are likely to avoid base formations. Given that the team ranks 25th in defensive expected points added (EPA) against 11 personnel, this matchup could yield both challenges and opportunities for the defense. Fortunately for the 49ers, the Titans sit at the bottom of the league in EPA per play with a mark of -0.17.
Another area where the 49ers can capitalize is the Titans’ struggles against pre-snap motion. The 49ers, known for their innovative offensive strategies, are second in the NFL in motion usage at 67.8%, just behind the Miami Dolphins. Head coach Kyle Shanahan’s play-calling often employs motion to determine coverage and create mismatches, with Kyle Juszczyk serving as a key player in this strategy. His availability will be monitored closely, but even without him, the 49ers are expected to leverage motion to their advantage.
The Titans currently hold the second-worst defensive EPA against motion, which could provide a crucial edge for the 49ers in their gameplay.
Additionally, in the intermediate passing game, the 49ers have consistently found success. The Titans have struggled in this area as well, ranking last in intermediate defensive EPA at 0.71. In contrast, the 49ers sit eighth in the league with an EPA of 0.52 for intermediate throws. The matchup suggests that players like George Kittle and Jauan Jennings could be primed for big performances come Sunday.
With these tactical advantages in hand, the 49ers are optimistic as they gear up for their clash with the Titans, aiming to solidify their playoff positioning and continue their push toward postseason contention.
