3 things Cowboys must do to in divisional round to neutralize Kyle Shanahan's potent 49ers offense
The Dallas Cowboys advanced to the divisional round of the NFL Playoffs by defeating the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the Wild Card round. They will go on the road once again to face off against the San Francisco 49ers, who defeated the Seattle Seahawks in their first postseason game.
While the Cowboys were extremely impressive in their victory over the Buccaneers, the 49ers will likely present a much greater challenge. The 49ers have been one of the best overall teams all season long, featuring the top-ranked defense in the NFL. They also have a prolific offense with many dynamic playmakers across the board.
49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan has established a reputation for being an offensive genius. He's been known to completely control games with his playcalling, while overwhelming opposing defenses. Cowboys defensive coordinator Dan Quinn has a tall task in trying to slow down their dominant attack.
The coaches should be relatively familiar with each other's styles and schemes. When Dan Quinn served as the head coach for the Atlanta Falcons, Kyle Shanahan was their offensive coordinator. Quinn may be able to use this knowledge to his advantage when they face off in the NFL Playoffs.
Here are three key points to success for the Cowboys defense against the 49ers offense.
#1 Cowboys must make stopping the run a priority
One of the main focuses when trying to slow down any Kyle Shanahan offense is to make run-stopping an absolute priority. His entire offensive scheme works off of his dynamic rushing attack. He uses a wide variety of rushing schemes and unique designs to keep the offense off-balance. Their goal is to wear down a defense with their rushing game, which will then open up more passing lanes.
Slowing down the 49ers rushing offense will be more challenging than ever, but it’s important for the Cowboys if they are to have success. Christian McCaffrey has been one of the best players in the NFL since being acquired via trade from the Carolina Panthers. If the Cowboys can keep him quiet, they will have done half their job.
#2 Pressure the rookie QB
Brock Purdy has been one of the most spectacular stories during the 2022 NFL season. He initially served as the third-string quarterback after being selected with the final pick of the 2022 NFL Draft. The 23-year-old was unexpectedly forced into the starting role in Week 13 after Jimmy Garoppolo and Trey Lance each suffered injuries this year. Purdy has responded by going undefeated so far.
The wildest part about the Niners' run? They lost two (yes, two) starting QBs. Trey Lance in Week 2 and Jimmy Garoppolo in Week 13.
Enter the last pick in the 2022 NFL Draft: @brockpurdy13. He hasn't lost, and is putting up wild stats since becoming a starter. (via @NFLResearch) twitter.com/i/web/status/1… https://t.co/q0MqusMGMW
One of the strengths of the Cowboys defense is pressuring opposing quarterbacks, especially with superstar Micah Parsons. They recorded the third-most team sacks during the 2022 season.
The Cowboys should make it a priority to apply even more pressure on Purdy than they normally would. This could cause the inexperienced quarterback to make crucial mistakes in this monumental game.
#3 Contain Deebo Samuel
While the 49ers offense is loaded with dynamic playmakers, Deebo Samuel is probably the most dangerous due to his unique skillset. McCaffrey is the engine that drives the offense, while Samuel is a threat to blow the game wide open. He lines up all over their offensive formations as Kyle Shanahan schemes a variety of creative ways to get the ball in his hands.
Dan Quinn must design defensive schemes during this game to contain the 49ers' home run threat. One way to do so is by allowing superstar cornerback Trevon Diggs to follow him around the formation wherever he goes. Diggs is their best player in coverage, as well as one of their most dynamic athletes. This will potentially be a direct one-on-one matchup to keep a close eye on.