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Matt Hamm writes about the San Francisco 49ers on Niner Noise and he was kind enough to answer some of my questions to help us get familiar with the Lions’ opponent this week.

Zac Snyder: What have been the biggest differences in the 49ers (besides wins) since Jim Harbaugh took over as head coach? (more…)

Photo taken by Michael Olsen

Frank Gore vs. Lions’ front seven

The rejuvenation of Alex Smith’s career has been largely due to the coaching philosophy of Jim Harbaugh, who has relegated Smith to that of a game manager. In the style of Baltimore’s Trent Dilfer, Smith is simply there to hand the ball off, make simple throws when needed, and protect the football.

The engine that drives this 49er offense is runningback Frank Gore, who has churned out at least 125 rushing yards in each of the previous two weeks. The entire San Francisco philosophy is based on strong defense, protecting the football, and controlling the clock with the running game. The key to keeping the Lions’ explosive offense off of the field will be the consistency of Gore in the running game, as well as the 49er offensive line’s ability to control the Lions’ front seven.

Corey Williams has been a beast thus far in 2011 against the run. Ndamukong Suh is learning to balance his responsibilities in the run game, with his aggressiveness as a pass rusher. The linebacking corps played well on Monday night, but injuries may limit this group, leading to opportunities for the 49ers offensive line. Stephen Tulloch is nursing a sore ankle, and Justin Durant has missed two games with lingering effects from a concussion. Bobby Carpenter and DeAndre Levy need to continue their improved play from the past two weeks for the Lions’ defense to have a chance to get off of the field.

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