Keys to victory 1 Make them throw » This is much easier said than done, but the Niners do not have a strong passing attack, even though quarterback Alex Smith has a 95.7 passer rating. They excel on first down, but when in third and six or longer the Niners convert 27 percent of those plays into first downs. Defensive end Stephen Bowen and nose tackle Barry Cofield need a consistent game. Eight men in the box will be a must.
2 Throw quicker » You can’t blame the play-calling for everything, nor can you pin the problems on the offensive line. Quarterback John Beck had time to take deep shots vs. Buffalo, but he can’t wait forever on the intermediate routes. With the run game struggling, they need short throws to move the chains and serve as extended handoffs. San Francisco’s pass defense is not as strong as its run defense, but the Redskins’ receivers also need to get early separation.
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3 Run block » The sacks weren’t all on the offensive line, but the issues with the run blocking mostly were. Too often Buffalo had multiple defenders in the backfield right after the handoff. The passing game is not built to sustain this offense. The problem is, San Francisco has a strong run defense, with end Justin Smith and inside linebackers Patrick Willis and NaVorro Bowman.
Key matchups
OLB Brian Orakpo
His run defense has improved, but the Redskins need make more big plays in the passing game.
vs.
LT Joe Staley
He’s a quality left tackle, but he’s not unbeatable. The Niners’ scheme helps the line.
LB London Fletcher
Coming off his best game of the season, he’ll face the fourth straight excellent rusher.
vs.
RB Frank Gore
Durability is an issue, production is not. He’s averaged 4.7 yards a carry in his career.
LT Sean Locklear
It’s hard to imagine Trent Williams playing, so Locklear needs a good game.
vs.
DE Aldon Smith
The rookie pass-rush specialist has 6 ? sacks, and he’s starting to play more on every down.
Expert’s Take
“They run the ball and have the No. 1 defense in the league. So it’s not that Alex [Smith] is different. He’s managing the offense. Jim Harbaugh knows what he can do. They run Gore and he gets six or seven yards on first down. They throw short. The defense hasn’t given up a rushing touchdown. They’re winning the old-fashioned way.”
– Longtime NFL scout Dave Razzano
Examiner Predicts …
The 49ers are 3-0 on the road this season and have proven themselves to be mentally tough. The Redskins’ defense can keep it close for a while.
49ers 21, Redskins 10
