How the 49ers are going to force the Saints to adjust in a critical way
The New Orleans Saints and San Fransico 49ers are heading in opposite directions. As the 49ers boast playmakers like Christian McCaffrey, Deebo Samuel, Brandon Aiyuk, and George Kittle. New Orleans will be tasked with limiting a San Fransico offense that will make life difficult. Saints head coach Dennis Allen isn't shying away from the job, […]
The New Orleans Saints and San Fransico 49ers are heading in opposite directions.
As the 49ers boast playmakers like Christian McCaffrey, Deebo Samuel, Brandon Aiyuk, and George Kittle. New Orleans will be tasked with limiting a San Fransico offense that will make life difficult. Saints head coach Dennis Allen isn't shying away from the job, however.
"They’ve got playmakers at the receiver position, they’ve got playmakers at the tight end position. They’ve got playmakers in the running back position,” coach Allen said. "That makes it challenging in terms of, ‘Who are you trying to take away?’ … It makes it tough.”
The Saints have their work ahead of them. They will be relying on the defense both early and often. And if the Saints get into a shootout with the 49ers, there is no realistic way the Saints' offense can keep up with what San Fransico can do.
Yes, the Saints have weapons of their own. But much of what leads to success for New Orleans is running the ball. It's hard to run the ball when playing from behind. And Andy Dalton isn't reliable enough to throw the ball 40-plus times week in and week out.
The 49ers are near unanimous picks to win on Sunday, meaning New Orleans will be playing with house money. No expectations. If the Saints can limit the 49ers' offensive weapons, they may be able to sneak out of Week 12 with a critical win.
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Feature image via Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports
