Christian McCaffrey has been the face of San Francisco since being traded to the 49ers in 2022. When healthy, he’s always played a key role in their offense. He isn’t only a weapon rushing, but also in the receiving game. His role has never been bigger than it is now with the 49ers injuries on offense. The New Orleans Saints limiting McCaffrey will be the difference between a win and a loss.
The 49ers are stretched thin offensively. Starting quarterback Brock Purdy is set to miss the next 2-5 weeks due to a turf toe and shoulder injury. Superstar tight end George Kittle suffered a hamstring injury and was put on injured reserve. Finally, starting receiver Jauan Jennings is dealing with a shoulder injury, but he’s expected to play.
The fallout of these injuries causes McCaffrey to have a massive workload. First off, backup quarterback Mac Jones will be sprung into action. The 49ers offensive line was unable to protect Purdy well in their opener, so Jones will likely be under duress against the Saints. This forces him to get the ball out quickly. Without Kittle there, McCaffrey will become the main option.
Christian McCaffrey is the deciding factor in the Week 2 outcome
Christian McCaffrey is the most dangerous player on the field for the 49ers without their injuries. With multiple of his teammates down, McCaffrey's importance only grows. Limiting him will be the difference between the Saints winning and losing.
McCaffrey showed how he can dissect the Saints defense with his performance in week one. He wasn’t only a threat rushing, but also receiving. He was given 22 carries for 69 yards on the ground and added nine receptions for 73 yards through the air. In total he had 31 touches for 142 scrimmage yards. McCaffrey was a key reason why the 49ers won. It’s insane to believe the Saints will fully stop him, instead they should focus on limiting him.
Even if they improve dramatically at defending the run, a player of McCaffrey’s caliber will still make plays. Kyle Shanahan will scheme up ways to get him the ball in open space. It’s pivotal that the Saints defense wraps him up and not let him get extra yardage. Holding him under 100 scrimmage yards and no touchdowns would be a massive success for New Orleans.