There have been rumors around the league that many GMs were calling the 49ers overrated. To be fair, the 49ers did have a pretty weak schedule last season. And after an embarrassing performance in the NFC Championship game, that was all that was needed for the haters to hop on the “49ers are overrated” bandwagon. This season the 49ers are shutting up all the haters. And all they can do is shut up and watch.
Two weeks ago the 49ers beat the Colts. It was a close game, but it ultimately came down to a game-winning field goal by 9ers. They showcased amazing pressure as their front 7 continued to prove that they are deadly. This defense is ranked top 3 and they proved why that is. But the most exciting thing to me is seeing Malik Willis and Nick Chubb go to a winning culture and dominate. Malik Willis already has over 2000 yards. Of course, most of those yards were with the Browns, but I expect him to put up even greater numbers now with the 9ers. Against the Colts, Willis running the ball was a huge reason they won. The 49ers used option plays to keep the Colts guessing. And although you would think a top defense could stop an option play, it seemed no adjustment could stop it. Willis did not have the best passing game, as he threw 2 interceptions, but his presence alone was something the Colts knew they had to be aware of. A clear difference between Brock Purdy and Willis. They both can dot up, but when you have a quarterback who can dot and scramble, you have struck gold.
This week the 49ers beat the Steelers. And man, if you want to know if they are contenders, all you would have had to do was watch this game. Down 14-0 before the half, the 49ers stayed calm and played smart football. After a mess up in coverage defense by the Steelers that led to a 49ers touchdown, we had a game again. And that front 7 defense I was talking about showed up again, forcing Pickett to throw three interceptions. The 49ers do a great job at taking care of the football, so once Pickett threw the second pick, it was pretty clear that the 49ers were going to win the game. Yet another impressive victory.
After the game, the 49ers Head Coach had some words for the league. Don’t get me wrong, he gave his respect. But he also made it clear that the 49ers are here and ready for all the smoke. I have said that I see the 49ers coming out of the NFC, but after the last two weeks, they might win the whole thing. Go 9ers!
©Any Given Sunday News