49ers vs Chiefs
Monday pundits were pointing out the difference in offensive production between scripted quarters (1st half for the S.F.) and unscripted quarters (2nd half). There's a huge drop off for the 49ers this year. I've noticed it on the defensive side too.
Chief's receivers were interviewed following the Week 7 game vs K.C. and they said the 49ers defense was playing them very tight on the line in the first half, defending Mahomes' 5 to 10 yard dinks with effectiveness. 49ers even made an interception.
At halftime the Chiefs decided to target 15-20 yards downfield, figuring if S.F. was playing their receivers so tight they could blow right by them on the snap. That's exactly what they did. Mahomes feasted on open receiver after open receiver. It ended with a K.C. blow-out, 44-23.
Kyle Shanahan and DeMeco Ryans (Defensive Coordinator) are lauded for their units, and their first half production is indeed impressive. But in the second they're getting killed by other team adjustments.
This is really troublesome.
I think it's time for Shanahan to give up play-calling and for Ryans to coach from the booth.
Hat tip to the Kansas City Chiefs, Andy Reid, his staff, and the players. They out-thought and out-played San Francisco.