49ers snap count vs. Bears: Less of the heavy stuff once again

The snap count is out for the San Francisco 49ers 28-20 loss to the Bears, and there are not a lot of surprises. You can view the whole NFL gamebook HERE (PDF).

Alex Boone returned to the starting lineup, which dropped Joe Looney out. Looney ended up with one offensive snap, and four special teams snaps. In the past, the 49ers rolled out a pretty sizable number of heavy formations. This year, we really aren't seeing much of that. I think part of that is Derek Carrier is still a bit of a question mark as a blocking tight end. Initially I figured some of it might also have something to do with the reserve offensive linemen, but it is also possible the 49ers are trying to truly adjust their offensive philosophy, as opposed to just occasionally mixing in something new. We probably need to wait for Anthony Davis to return from his hamstring injury before we can know anything for certain.

There was one random occurrence. The snap count says Bruce Ellington had three offensive snaps, 11 special teams snaps, and one defensive snap. I don't recall seeing him in on defense, so it is possible this is a mistake that will eventually be corrected. Anybody catch him on defense?

Dan Skuta ended up with two more snaps than Corey Lemonier. Skuta finished with 30, to Lemonier's 28. A week ago, Lemonier had 37, and Skuta had 32, likely due to the extra nickel and dime work. Aaron Lynch had 18 snaps, a week after getting 20 against the Cowboys. I'm curious to see how the 49ers develop Lynch's workload as the season moves along. His talent is undeniable, and the 49ers seem to recognize that. They haven't turned him into a starter or anything, but they've thrown him into the mix very quickly.