In reflection, Kyle Shanahan, the head coach of the San Francisco 49ers, addressed the team’s glaring weakness from last season: their run defense.
Highlighted by Shanahan’s analysis was the vulnerability to crack tosses, a play that troubled the 49ers throughout the season. He noted the persistence of opponents exploiting this weakness, emphasizing the need for immediate rectification during games.
A crack toss involves a wide receiver or tight end “cracking” down on a defensive end, enabling the quarterback to toss the ball to the running back, who aims to evade the defensive end and advance towards the perimeter of the defense.
To counter this, the defensive end must either contain the running back or force them inside, allowing linebackers or safeties to make the tackle.
Shanahan pinpointed the safeties’ role in filling rushing lanes as a key issue. Despite acknowledging the potential of players like Ji’Ayir Brown and Talanoa Hufanga, Shanahan expressed interest in bolstering the safety position, citing George Odum’s prowess on special teams as an asset.
With the draft looming, Shanahan’s assessment underscores the imperative for the 49ers to address defensive vulnerabilities to fortify their run defense for the upcoming season.
