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Lions at 49ers: Here’s San Francisco’s biggest weakness

By Steven Mullenax

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - SEPTEMBER 09: Jimmy Garoppolo #10 of the San Francisco 49ers is sacked by Everson Griffen #97 of the Minnesota Vikings in the first quarter of the game at U.S. Bank Stadium on September 9, 2018 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Adam Bettcher/Getty Images)
MINNEAPOLIS, MN - SEPTEMBER 09: Jimmy Garoppolo #10 of the San Francisco 49ers is sacked by Everson Griffen #97 of the Minnesota Vikings in the first quarter of the game at U.S. Bank Stadium on September 9, 2018 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Adam Bettcher/Getty Images) /
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Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images
Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images /

3. What would you consider to be the 49ers’ biggest strength? Biggest weakness?

CW: The 49ers’ biggest strength is their passing attack, provided Garoppolo has the time needed to pass. Shanahan has always been proficient in scheming receivers open, particularly through his use of heavy sets.

Once Garoppolo was added to the equation, the 2017 49ers became the NFL’s top offense in many offensive metrics, including points-per-drive, yards-per-drive, and scoring percentage.

Despite drafting defensive linemen in the first round of three consecutive drafts, the 49ers’ pass rush remains their biggest weakness. While San Francisco is stout in the run game, they lack an edge rusher able to administer consistent quarterback pressure.

The 49ers – led by 3-technique defensive tackle DeForest Buckner, who logged 2.5 sacks last week – are forced to rely on interior pressure, and pressure schemed by defensive coordinator Robert Saleh, in order to disrupt the rhythm of opposing quarterbacks.

4. Who is one relatively unknown player that will surprise Detroit fans on Sunday?

CW: Many NFL fans are unfamiliar with rookie linebacker Fred Warner, but if the third-rounder continues his level of play from Week 1, he’ll be in the running for rookie honors by the end of the season.

With fellow inside linebacker Reuben Foster serving the first game of a two-game suspension, Warner stepped in as the leader of the 49ers’ defense last week. Warner finished his NFL debut with a game-high 12 tackles and a forced fumble while calling plays from the defensive huddle.

The 49ers will need a repeat performance from Warner this week, as he is likely to pair up with fourth-string inside linebacker Elijah Lee to start the game.

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