The San Francisco 49ers beat the Seattle Seahawks 27-7 in their home opener. With the win, also came a great loss for the team. In the first quarter, Quarterback Trey Lance went down with a severe ankle injury. The injury resulted in Lance getting carted off the field. The injury came from a play where Lance ran down the center of the field. Lance went down, and two Seattle players landed on his leg. Later in the game, it was reported Lance may need season-ending ankle surgery. With it only being the second week of the season, and a current record of 1-1, where do the 49ers go from here?
Jimmy Garoppolo
Jimmy Garoppolo and the 49ers’ front office restructured his contract before the start of the season. Garoppolo’s signed on to backup to Trey Lance. Despite the controversy that surrounded this decision, it is safe to say that it was a smart decision by the front office. Following the injury to Lance, Garoppolo completed 13 of 21 attempts, for 154 total yards. Garoppolo also had one touchdown pass to Dwelley in the second quarter and a touchdown from a QB Sneak in the fourth quarter. Although his completion percentage was 61.9, Garoppolo kept the hope alive, already having chemistry with the majority of his receivers. In the past three years, Garoppolo was a part of two NFC Championships and one Superbowl appearance.
The Defense
Seattle’s only scoring play was from a blocked field goal which was returned for a touchdown in the third quarter. The 49er’s defense did not allow a scoring drive and forced three turnovers. The defense totaled in forcing one fumble and two interceptions. The defense also totaled two sacks and seven tackles for loss. If the defense can continue how they are playing, the lack of Trey Lance should be easier on the team.
Fix the Playbook
With Lance being a mobile quarterback and Garoppolo not, much of the playbook will need to be changed. Shanahan has shown that the 49ers would use Lance’s legs to their advantage. With Trey Lance out for the season, the playbook will need to be Garoppolo-friendly. These plays will include quick snaps and utilizing the running game. If the offensive line continues to hold off their opponent, the 49er’s offense should continue to succeed.
The 49ers should also hope for no more rain games.
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