49ers won't be able to stop Falcons

Click here for more on this story

Posted: Wednesday January 06, 1999 11:58 AM

If the San Francisco 49ers want to beat Atlanta this weekend, they'll need to do something they couldn't do in their two regular season games this year -- stop Jamal Anderson.

Anderson carried the ball 44 times for 223 yards and three TDs in their first two matchups, and that was against a defense that featured all-pro DT Bryant Young, who is now on injured reserve. If Anderson continues at his average of five yards per carry against San Francisco -- and I have every reason to think he will -- it will be a very long flight home for Steve Mariucci and company.

If San Francisco tries to put eight or nine men in the box to stop the run, QB Chris Chandler should do fine. As one defensive coordinator who has played both teams told me, the smart play of Chandler makes the Falcons very tough to scheme right now. San Francisco sacked Chandler 10 times this year, but Atlanta's offensive line is getting better and didn't give up a sack against a good pass-rushing Miami Dolphins defense in their last game.

Also, keep your eye on Falcons tight end O.J. Santiago. Linebacker Ken Norton and safety Tim McDonald have their work cut out for them. O.J., the guy who claims to have invented the "Dirty Bird" dance, can't wait to give a national TV audience a sample. Watch for him in the red zone on the seam pass. If Norton has him in man coverage, the ball is on its way.

On the other side of the ball, the Falcons are ranked second in the NFL against the run, and Rich Brooks' defensive unit held Garrison Hearst to just 113 yards and no touchdowns during the regular season. Steve Young will have to go to the air often to beat the Falcons. Look for the 49ers to come out in three-receiver sets early, try to establish a quick lead and take Jamal Anderson out of the game.

For once, Atlanta should have a home field advantage. The Georgia Dome is sold out, it will be very loud, and the emotional factor surrounding the return of Dan Reeves can't be underestimated. I like Atlanta to move on to the NFC Championship game.

 

Related information
Stories
1998 NFL Playoffs Bracket Pat Kirwan's Unsung Heroes: McGinnis helps Cards to wild-card upset Dr. Z On Football: Untold story of the wild-card wars Peter King's Monday Morning QB: Wild cards, All-Pros and more
Multimedia
Click here for the latest audio and video
Search our site	Watch CNN/SI 24 hours a day
	Sports Illustrated and CNN have combined to form a 24 hour sports news and information channel. To receive CNN/SI at your home call 1-888-53-CNNSI.