Reviewing the 49ers Week 7 win over the Atlanta Falcons
The San Francisco 49ers finally played like their old self for once this season against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday night. Playing like that despite still missing Brock Purdy, Ricky Pearsall, Brandon Aiyuk, and a few others. I’m sure some of you out there are probably getting tired of the same constant mentions of players that are injured, but we only do this because the injury list just keeps on growing.
Last night, Jake Brendel injured his hamstring in the middle of the second quarter and was replaced by Matt Hennessey. Hennessey looked like he was doing well for the rest of the game, because it looked like Mac Jones had a bit more time in the pocket compared to when Brendel was in the lineup. Can’t get too excited after one game, but I am excited to see how Hennessey takes advantage of these opportunities now and could potentially be the next starting center for the 49ers next season. Renardo Green was also injured last night, so the list gets bigger.
The 49ers defense played surprisingly well as they held Bijan Robinson to only 40-yards rushing even though he did score a touchdown through the air. Defensive ends Bryce Huff and Sam Okuayinonu each contributed to a sack and five quarterback pressures, with Alfred Collins accumulated three pressures on his own. Mykel Williams is coming along in the run game, but still needs work on his pass rushing skills.
On the other side of the ball, I’m sure 49ers fans are grateful for George Kittle’s return. Despite having zero catches and only targeted twice, his presence was mostly felt in the run game. The rushing game was up to 5.4 yards per carry when he was on the field and down to 2.0 when he was off. He was a huge contributor to Christian McCaffery’s 201-yard scrimmage game and his two touchdowns.
The Falcons came into this game 3-2 and had a huge win against the Buffalo Bills, who are still regarded as a powerhouse team in the AFC. This win for the 49ers will only help the team moving forward as they prepare for the Houston Texans next Sunday.
There have been claims that the 49ers had the easiest schedule back in the off-season, but they have now won against three teams with a record at .500 or better. This is great for the rookies as the year goes along, because they will get better from playing these good teams and will only help contribute to their success later in their careers.