The Cardinals did their work, Kaepernick probably gave the worst game of his life. When you start a game and your first two passes end up in interceptions returned for touchdowns, your chances of winning are practically nil, and not just the 14 points as such, but by the emotional blow the team could never recover.
Arizona is one of the most complete teams in the league.
Their defense is quick, opportunistic and well coached, with clever strategies and great settings. Jefferson, Campbell, Mathieu, Peterson and company can play against any attack, and this time, they read through Kaepernick view and were flying all over the field. Hyde delivered some pressure, but this game was decided from the second quarter. In addition, the offense ran as clockwork, and Carson Palmer not only has a large and versatile receptor team, but it looks like he’s still only 25 years old.
“We forgive you, Aldon”
The 49ers pass rush was nonexistent. For now, they look as if any offensive line can delete that part of the Niner defense, without pass rush you can never win a game. We saw Mangini search for heavy blitzes or use exotic tactics to generate some pressure, but they could never translate that into score. Inevitably, any defensive change Palmer sniffed out and made the appropriate adjustment for the offensive line to invalidate any attempt to blitz.
Larry Fitzgerald, second wind?
Looks like Larry Fitzgerald -one of the best receivers in history- has revived from his low level in the last two years and now looks rejuvenated, dynamic, and more effective than ever. His strength was seeking the hole in the 49ers defense zone, where we saw sometimes marked by a linebacker or slot corner, and a small cut or patience to move slowly to be always alone. Fitzgerald has masterfully managed to adapt to the position of slot receiver, departing from midfield to exploit post routes or out routes and make spectacular catches near the sideline.
Carlos Hyde still relevant
One of the few players who still works for the 49ers is running back Carlos Hyde. the team has come to fill Frank Gore’s the big and hard shoes, and so far it has done so extraordinarily well. In the match he managed to run down the middle of the tacklers, or outside on long drives, and accurate cuts or pure speed could always get positive yards. The problem was that no one else worked, and the team failed from head to toe to each timely execution.
Arians is a genius.
His game plan from start of the match could not be better. He knew where to attack at all times, what their strengths and weaknesses are. For example, Kaepernick when pressed, will look for Boldin first, so he was double covered on blitzes. Also, the offensive level never missed a beat and knew how to take advantage of the lack of pressure from the opponent. Arians deserves a lot of credit for this game.
