49ers’ Defensive Line Shines in Week 3 Victory Over Giants
After a convincing 30-12 win over the New York Giants in Week 3, the San Francisco 49ers’ defensive line is receiving high praise. Defensive end Nick Bosa believes this was their best performance yet, and the Pro Football Focus (PFF) grades back up his claim.
The star-studded group put immense pressure on Giants quarterback Daniel Jones, tallying 17 total pressures. Jones struggled to find his rhythm, completing only 22 of his 32 pass attempts for 137 yards, throwing one interception, and earning a 64.2 rating.
While the Week 3 pressure numbers were slightly lower than the previous week’s impressive 27 against the Los Angeles Rams, Bosa believes their chemistry as a unit was stronger this time around. Defensive tackles Arik Armstead and Javon Hargrave stood out with their quarterback pressures, and they also excelled against the run, allowing just 29 rushing yards on 11 carries.
“I think tonight, all around as a unit, was one of the best performances,” Bosa said. “Well, the best performance we’ve had together. Winning rushes, everybody, really fast. Sometimes too fast where [Jones] could get it out. But the interior, Arik and Javon had really good games today.”
On the offensive side, the 49ers faced a challenging blitzing defense from the Giants. However, quarterback Brock Purdy and the offense found their stride after an initial struggle. They orchestrated several long drives and finished with a total of 441 yards of net offense.
Wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk was sidelined due to a shoulder injury, but Deebo Samuel, Christian McCaffrey, and George Kittle stepped up to fill the void. They contributed to the team’s offensive success with their impressive performances.
In terms of PFF grades for the offense, Purdy received a grade of 61.1. Once he adjusted to the Giants’ pressure, Purdy effectively moved the ball and achieved a passer rating of 108.5 when blitzed. McCaffrey received a grade of 69.9, showcasing his usual bruising style and forcing several missed tackles. Samuel earned a grade of 88.6, leading all NFL receivers with six missed tackles forced in a single game. Kittle had his best receiving game of the season, with a grade of 76.2, including two forced missed tackles.
The offensive line also performed well. Left tackle Trent Williams received an overall grade of 76.4 and excelled in pass blocking. The interior linemen struggled more, with Aaron Banks receiving a grade of 47.5 and Jake Brendel earning a grade of 46.4.
On the defensive side, the 49ers’ defensive line dominated. Javon Hargrave, Nick Bosa, and Arik Armstead stood out in their pass rush, with grades of 93.0, 92.8, and 91.5, respectively. Linebacker Dre Greenlaw and safeties Isaiah Oliver and Tashaun Gipson also contributed with quarterback hurries.
In pass coverage, linebacker Oren Burks received an impressive coverage grade of 90.1. He allowed just four catches for 13 receiving yards while registering five tackles and four stops. Cornerback Charvarius Ward earned a coverage grade of 79.0, allowing only three receptions for 22 yards. Linebacker Fred Warner also performed well, allowing just three catches for 22 yards and recording a run stop.
Overall, the 49ers’ Week 3 victory showcased the strength and talent of their defensive line and the resilience of their offense. With notable performances from key players, the team looks poised for continued success as the season progresses.