The 49ers offense started with a bang, but a turnover allowed Baltimore to tie things at 7. The defense played well in the first drive against the Ravens’ offense, but has struggled since.
It’s tied at seven after one. Here’s what stood out in the first quarter:
Fourth-and-2? Go deep
The 49ers had a tough choice early on with a fourth-and-2 at the Ravens’ 33-yard-line. It was either attempt a 51-yard field goal or take a chance a go for it. Kyle Shanahan not only chose the latter, but drew up a deep shot. Jimmy Garoppolo connected with Deebo Samuel in double coverage for a touchdown to give the 49ers an early lead. The weather will likely change play calls on both sides and Shanahan took advantage the first try he had.
Fred Warner in coverage
Warner is the hottest player on the 49ers defense and has been since Kwon Alexander went down four weeks ago. On a second-and-10, Lamar Jackson threw a pass toward Marquise Brown on an in route with the linebacker in coverage. Warner looked like a defensive back with his diving pass breakup to prevent the completion. The 49ers will need everything they can get from the defense and Warner’s play led to the Ravens first punt since Week 9.
49ers turnover leads to Ravens points
Mike McGlinchey picked up a blitzing Jihad Ward, but released to pick up Matthew Judon around the edge. That move from McGlinchey allowed Ward to get to Garoppolo forcing him to the ground and allowing Chuck Clark to punch the ball out. The fumble was recovered by Baltimore. Lamar Jackson cashed in two plays later to tie the game at 7-7. Even though it’s wet and sloppy, the 49ers can’t afford turnovers like that to give Jackson an even shorter field.
