San Francisco 49ers on edge as Bijan Robinson threatens to wreak havoc through aerial attack
San Francisco 49ers Face Challenge as Bijan Robinson Emerges as a Dual Threat
The San Francisco 49ers have built a reputation for their formidable run defense this season. However, their resolve will be put to the test as they prepare to face the Atlanta Falcons’ Bijan Robinson, a player whose versatility poses a significant threat, especially in the absence of linebacker Fred Warner.
Absence of Warner and Defensive Adjustments
While the 49ers have showcased their ability to stifle opposing ground games, the recent loss of Warner creates a ripple effect. Tatum Bethune stepped up admirably during Warner’s absence, demonstrating solid play against the run. Yet, the challenge extends beyond stopping the run. Robinson’s prowess as a receiver adds a complex dimension to the matchup.
Robinson has already made waves this season, amassing 338 receiving yards, placing him second only to Christian McCaffrey among running backs. His efficiency is evident in his impressive average of 2.5 yards per route run, surpassing McCaffrey’s 2.05. This statistic underscores Robinson’s capability to impact the game not just on the ground but through the air, a facet the 49ers must prepare for diligently.
Past Performance and Tactical Insights
Historically, the 49ers have excelled at defending passes directed toward running backs. However, they have faced challenges against offenses that frequently utilize their running backs in the passing game. A recent example is Kyren Williams, who exploited the 49ers for eight receptions, 66 yards, and two touchdowns in a previous matchup, even with Warner on the field.
The Falcons’ offensive coordinator, rooted in the Sean McVay coaching lineage, is likely to leverage this footage against the 49ers. Expect creative schemes designed to free Robinson in the passing game, testing Bethune’s ability to adapt and communicate effectively. The 49ers will need to ensure their defensive communication is tight, both pre-snap and post-snap, to mitigate Robinson’s impact.
Critical Adjustments for the 49ers
The 49ers do not need to completely neutralize Robinson; rather, they must prevent him from breaking off big plays that can shift the momentum of the game. With their defense seeking to regain its footing, this matchup against Robinson will serve as a significant litmus test.
As the 49ers prepare to face the Falcons, they will be keenly aware of the dual threat Robinson poses. The ability to contain him, particularly in the passing game, could be the deciding factor in maintaining their defensive dominance throughout the season.
Browns Linked to Trading Shedeur Sanders to Struggling AFC Team
The Cleveland Browns have Shedeur Sanders as their backup quarterback, but that could soon change.
Cleveland is using Dillon Gabriel as its starting quarterback and could be in the market to draft a quarterback early in next year’s draft. With that, NFL analyst Christopher Kline of FanSided links the Browns to trading Sanders to the
The New York Jets fell to 0-6 with an ugly loss in London. Justin Fields threw for 45 yards and took nine sacks for -55 yards, which means the Jets’ passing attack generated -10 yards in total,” Kline
“If the Jets can bring in a young quarterback for trial by fire, that is the ideal solution. Why not see what Sanders can do with a long runway? It’s not like the Jets are without quality playmakers. Garrett Wilson is one of the best wideouts in the
Kline believes the Jets need to try something new, and Sanders would get the chance to start. The Browns, meanwhile, would likely get a draft pick back and move on from the Sanders experiment.
Sanders Unlikely to Start Anytime Soon For Browns
Part of the reason why Sanders could be traded is due to the fact that he doesn’t have a path to playing time.
The Browns are set on Gabriel as the starting quarterback, so Sanders may not get playing time this season. Insider Jason Lloyd of The Athletic reported that Sanders isn’t ready and is unlikely to play anytime soon.
“I don’t get the impression that he’s “ready,” but I don’t know that it matters much,” Lloyd wrote. “If they crowbarred Johnny Manziel onto the field on a team that was actually in the division race, why wouldn’t they throw Sanders out there at some point, given the current mess?
“Look, we all know Sanders is a lightning rod. I don’t know what you think of him, but he comes off as quite likable in the few brief interactions I’ve had with him. It’s all the noise that comes with him that makes all of this difficult. I’ve written and said all I want to about Sanders until he takes the field. Ultimately, I believe the Browns will be right back in the quarterback lottery next year.”
Sanders did show flashes of promise in the preseason, which is why he could have some trade value ahead of the Nov. 4 deadline.
Sanders Focused on Being the Best Backup
Although Sanders was vocal about wanting to start, he is focused on helping Gabriel.
Sanders said after the trade of Joe Flacco that his goal was to make sure Gabriel is ready
“We’re going to make sure we do everything we can to make sure Dillon is ready for the game,” Sanders said. “So each and every day, even when Joe (Flacco) was the starter, everything. Prepare the right way and be ready to know that you could get out there any point in time. So, I’m overly confident within myself. I know when I first got here, I’m ready to play. But it’s up to the coache. And whatever decision they make, then I’m fine with.”
Gabriel is set for his third-straight start against the Miami Dolphins on Sunday at home.
