The San Francisco 49ers fell short to the Carolina Panthers 46-27 in week two. Despite a 19-point loss, there were some bright spots. The 49ers flashed life that was missing for much of last season.
San Francisco 49ers Week Two Takeaways
The 49ers Offense is Starting to Put it Together
2015 saw the 49ers finish 32 and 31 in total offense and total years, respectively. The matchup against Carolina was nowhere near perfect, but the 49ers are starting to look like a real team. Blaine Gabbert completed 17 of his 36 passes with two touchdowns and one rushing touchdown. Gabbert also had two interceptions. The big takeaway is the team’s ability to find the end zone. Torrey Smith and Vance McDonald each had a touchdown. Smith could be a huge asset for Gabbert down the road. The 49ers did not look scared to take some shots downfield either. While Gabbert is still inconsistent, he is flashing signs of his ability to lead this team.
The Offense Still Has Some Work to Do
The offense struggled on third downs, converting just four out of 14 third down plays. The 49ers converted on almost 50% of their third down plays in week one, and they saw a dramatic decrease in production in week two. The team needs to find a way to convert on third-and-short situations, and keep the defense off of the field.
The Defense Needs the Young Guns to Step Up
Cam Newton had quite the day offensively. Newton threw for 353 yards and four touchdowns. Much of the day can be credited to the Carolina’s offensive line.The 49ers did force four total turnovers which showed some life, but the 49ers were unable to create pressure against Newton. Arik Armstead and DeForest Buckner are the 1-2 punch needed to generate a pass rush in the coming weeks.
The young duo had a great first week creating pressure, but failed to reach the quarterback in week two. Armstead and Buckner have shown great potential, and they will continue to grow together. This young duo is exactly what this defense needs.
Looking for a Playmaker
The 49ers are in desperate need of a playmaker. No player had more than 75 yards against Carolina. Torrey Smith started to take a larger role in the offense. Smith was targeted ten times and hauled in one touchdown. Smith is a player with the ability to “take the top off of a defense.” The 49ers must find a way to utilize Smith to his full potential.
Carlos Hyde was held to just 34 yards rushing. Hyde is poised for a breakout year, but he will need to step up against elite defenses. Hyde has been historically great in week one showings, but has declined in the following weeks. This week was no exception. Hyde’s lack of production makes sense considering the 49ers had to play from behind for most of the game.
The 49ers head to Seattle to face the Seahawks in a week three NFC West showdown. The Seahawks are coming off of a week 2 loss to the Los Angeles Rams, and a win for the 49ers would keep them atop the NFC West.
