3rd Down Beat Down

The analysts all agree. The 49ers defense can’t get off the field on 3rd down. It’s a big reason the team has gone from an optimistic 2-1 to a depressing 2-4. Since we’ve already opened the wound, let’s dig around inside a bit. On the season, the 49ers defense ranks 26th overall with opponents converting 43% of the time on 3rd down. The pass defense has been average on 3rd downs with opponents converting 39% of the time. Run defense on 3rd down has been outright horrible. Opponents have converted 52% of 3rd down rushing attempt, but even more distressing is the 3rd down short yardage rush defense. The 49ers have not been able to stuff opponents rushing attacks on 3rd and three or less yards, allowing an appalling 71% conversion rate on those short tries. Say what you will, but I think this is evidence of how much Bryant Young meant to the team. Isaac Sopoaga and Ron Fields just aren’t getting the job done on the inside. They don’t demand double teams, and that frees offensive lineman to get to the next level and block the 49er LBs. Kentwan Balmer is only a rookie and not a high impact rookie, either. So, I’ll use this time to launch the “Sign Albert Haynesworth, No Matter the Cost" or “Free P-Willy!” campaigns now because I don’t see any large improvement on the horizon with the current cast.