Key Offensive Strategies for Shanahan and Purdy in 49ers vs. Titans Match

The San Francisco 49ers are entering Week 15 rejuvenated after their bye week. The team is set to face the Tennessee Titans, and their offensive strategy will be pivotal in securing a win. With the defense possibly welcoming back defensive lineman Yetur Gross-Matos, the team is keen to leverage every advantage in this critical matchup.

Key Offensive Strategies for Shanahan and Purdy Against the Titans

Head Coach Kyle Shanahan and quarterback Brock Purdy will focus on several tactical elements that could enhance their performance against the Titans. Here are three critical areas to watch:

1. Utilizing 11 Personnel

• The Titans lead the NFL with a 73.2% use of 11 personnel, even with rookie quarterback Cam Ward.
• Rookies Elic Ayomanor and Chimere Dike complement veteran Van Jefferson in their receiving corps.
• Combined, the two rookie receivers have recorded 64 receptions, while Jefferson contributes with 23 catches.

The 49ers will have to prepare for the frequent 11 personnel sets, as they have encountered this formation at a 62.7% rate, which ranks as the seventh highest in the league. Rookie nickel cornerback Upton Stout will play a crucial role, as the 49ers’ defense ranks 25th in defensive EPA against 11 personnel.

2. Leveraging Motion Offense

• The 49ers rank second in the NFL at 67.8% for pre-snap motion, trailing only the Miami Dolphins.
• This strategy is essential for identifying defensive coverages and creating mismatches.
• Although Kyle Juszczyk is vital for the motion game, the 49ers will continue their motion-heavy offense even in his potential absence.

The Titans’ defense struggles against motion, sitting at an EPA of 0.18. This weakness presents an advantage for the 49ers, who effectively exploit defensive movements.

3. Targeting Intermediate Passes

• The Titans rank last in the league for intermediate defensive EPA at 0.71.
• In contrast, the 49ers excel with an EPA of 0.52 for intermediate throws, placing them eighth in the NFL.
• Key receivers George Kittle and Jauan Jennings are positioned to take advantage of this mismatch.

The 49ers are well-equipped to thrive in the intermediate passing game, and integrating this into their offensive strategy could lead to significant gains against the Titans.

Overall, Shanahan and Purdy’s game plan against the Titans will hinge on exploiting personnel mismatches, utilizing their motion-heavy offense, and focusing on successful intermediate passing strategies. As the playoff race intensifies, these strategies will be crucial in securing a favorable outcome.