I was debating whether I should post it here or in the Niner thread
Keys to the game from 49ers point of view:
Defense
1. Stop the run. I know Dak is good and has super dynamic playmakers, but stop the run and make them pass the ball all the time is the key imo. Less biting on PA and so forth
2. Contain Dak's pocket movement. While Dak isnt a running QB, hes a mobile QB. We are great against statue QB, but finishing against QBs who move and look to pass downfield is more challenging. Ideally he is contained so that pressure turns to sacks and not into stepping out of the pocket on a rollout and getting some completions or 5 yard gains.
3. Don't allow long drives. Usually 49ers defense is more bend but not break, but in this game I want to see the opposite. Long drives where the chains are moving are bad for the defense and the offense. Some big plays are fine occasionally.
4. Cover the TE. Schultz has quietly emerged as a very good all-around TE, and while he benefits from defenses keying in on Cooper/Lamb, he is actually a quite good TE himself.
5. Don't be desperate to blitz. Dallas has a good oline that might make it really tough to get pressure with four. But I think blitzing a lot is just asking to be gashed by Dak on short to intermediate routes
Offense
1. Run the goddamn ball. Dallas is not great against the ball ran between the tackles. While the D is fast its also small
Use power runs with Mitchell/Deebo and take the ball out of Jimmy Gs hands
2. YAC is love YAC is life. Dallas secondary is one of the worst in the league in YAC allowed. Deebo Kittle Mitchell Aiyuk Jennings is the best group in the NFL in YAC, by far. Don't overthink it. Give the ball to these guys and watch them run over people in the secondary, not around them.
3. Stay out of third and longs, and if you get into them, be conservative. Dallas is fast on defense and aggressive. Jimmy G when blitzed and rushed will rush throws and throw picks. Dont let him do it
4. Use Dallas aggression against them. Misdirection, whams, crack blocks, delayed handoffs
5. Use Kittle for extensive blocking if you have to. Hes a great weapon in pass game, but if oline is getting their asses handed to them and especially if Trent is not playing or not looking good, let Kittle block. Dude makes some amazing blocks.
