49ers snap count vs. Saints: Checking out the backups

I forgot to get the snap count posted yesterday, but I still wanted to make sure and post it. There were not huge differences from the usual snap count, but we did get a chance to see what happens when players get hurt.

The 49ers have generally avoided significant injuries for much of this season (and last season, for that matter). Week 12 saw that change as several players went down with a variety of injuries. We know about Kyle Williams injury, but it was interesting to see Anthony Dixon get a couple snaps, including one carry for five yards. Brandon Jacobs was on for two plays as well with a pair of rushes, although one play was wiped out by a penalty.

If Kendall Hunter is unable to go in Week 13, LaMichael James does provide some alternatives to Brandon Jacobs' and Anthony Dixon's more rumbling style of play. Although Kendall Hunter has shown some power, his best runs often come on sweeps and other plays that get him out in space to make defenders miss. The 49ers have a good thing going with their rushing game plan, so why not get James out there to mix it up a bit?

The other injury that is flying under the radar is Delanie Walker's hip. He reportedly needed a cart to get out to the 49ers bus after the game, but we have not heard much since then. Garrett Celek ended up with five snaps late in the game. If Walker is unable to go, Celek would move into his spot. This could actually mean some offensive snaps for Demarcus Dobbs. The 49ers worked Dobbs in at tight end throughout the preseason, but he has had very little TE work since. If Walker is inactive this Sunday, I suspect Dobbs will get some offensive snaps against the Rams.

You can read through the entire Gamebook HERE (PDF).

Offense had 60 total plays.

Defense had 70 total plays.

Here is the special teams breakdown for the entire team