The Carolina Panthers present a unique challenge for the 49ers’ red-hot defense. Opposing rushing attacks have started to find a little success against San Francisco, and Carolina running back Christian McCaffrey is good enough to expose any weakness in a defense.
Here are three keys for the 49ers defense Sunday:
1. Slow Christian McCaffrey on the ground
McCaffrey is responsible for 127 of Carolina’s 157 rushing attempts, 618 of their rushing yards, and seven of their 10 rushing touchdowns. He is their best player on offense, and this game will get away from the 49ers quickly if he gets going on the ground.
2. Slow Christian McCaffrey through the air
McCaffrey is responsible for 35 of Carolina’s 130 receptions, with 305 receiving yards – the most in the league by a running back. He could change positions to slot receiver and quickly become of the NFL’s best at that position. Keeping him from racking up big yards through the air is crucial to slowing down the Panthers’ passing attack and putting the onus on quarterback Kyle Allen to make plays.
3. Keep Christian McCaffrey out of the end zone
McCaffrey is responsible for nine of Carolina’s 17 offensive touchdowns. There’s a good chance that keeping him out of the end zone means keeping the Panthers out of the end zone. San Francisco has a great shot to win if Carolina has to stick to field goals.
