Better Rivals: A San Francisco 49ers Podcast

David and Oscar react to a heartbreaking and frustrating championship game loss. Topics include looking back to the success that was this season despite this one game, how the weakness in the secondary finally bit them, and an offense that never could get it going. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David and Oscar get you ready for the NFC Championship Game, previewing all you need to know about the 49ers’ third matchup of the season with the Rams. Topics include disguising on defense and why San Francisco makes it so hard to do, the game plans we expect to see from both defenses, whether the 49ers offense will get back on track and put up some points, and Matt Stafford against the blitz.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David and Oscar recap ANOTHER playoff win, as the 49ers travel into Green Bay and win ugly over Aaron Rodgers & Co. Topics include unexpected special teams dominance, another masterful effort from DeMeco Ryans and the defense, ugly offense from both teams, and the 49ers getting the win while checking very few of the boxes in their typical formula for success.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David and Oscar preview the 49ers’ Divisional Round matchup with Aaron Rodgers and the Packers. Topics include Green Bay’s suspect run defense, how Rodgers carved up San Francisco’s secondary in Week 3 and what needs to change to prevent it from happening again, and the 49ers’ formula for victory. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David and Oscar recap a tense and sloppy Wild Card win in Dallas. Topics include the 49ers formula in full effect early on, San Francisco’s diverse run game, Jimmy’s Jekyll-and-Hyde performance, and another standout effort from the defensive line that kept Dak uncomfortable all game long. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s time for playoff football! David and Oscar preview the 49ers’ Wild Card matchup with the Cowboys. Topics include whether San Francisco’s secondary will finally be exposed, the play of Dak Prescott and where he likes to attack, vulnerabilities in the Cowboys defense, and how the 49ers offense matches up.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David and Oscar recap a wild end to the regular season with the 49ers coming back from 17 down to beat the Rams and get into the playoffs. Topics include a disastrous start, what changed that allowed the 49ers to get back in it, Jimmy G coming up big when it mattered, a standout performance from the 49ers receiving corps, and how the D-line took over after San Francisco couldn’t stop the pass in the first half.  tickpick.com/rivals Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David and Oscar preview the 49ers’ play-in game against the Rams in the regular season finale. Topics include which run game we’ll see from the 49ers this week, whether the Rams will adjust on defense and use more single-high looks, Matt Stafford being the Matt Stafford he’s always been, and season milestones in striking distance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David and Oscar recap a much-needed win as the 49ers handle business against the Texans. Topics include Trey Lance’s performance, DeMeco Ryans continuing to scare opponents out of attempting deep shots, the return of Davis Mills’ turnover-worthy plays, and where the 49ers sit in the playoff picture as we enter the final week of the regular season.   tickpick.com/rivals Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David and Oscar offer some quick thoughts on the loss against the Titans in what might end up being the end of the Jimmy Garoppolo era in San Francisco before previewing a must-have game against the Texans. Topics include the full Jimmy G experience in Tennessee, what improvement we should expect from Trey Lance if he gets the start, Davis Mills and his recent stretch of play, and whether the Texans should look to use more max protect against the 49ers defense.  tickpick.com/rivals Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David and Oscar recap a comfortable home win over the Falcons that all but secures the 49ers’ playoff future. Topics include a standout performance from the defense led by the front four, the Falcons doing San Francisco a solid by waiting so long to start throwing deep, an efficient performance from the offense, and the one thing that Deebo Samuel can’t do.  tickpick.com/rivals Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David and Oscar preview a game that the 49ers must (and should) have against the Falcons to keep those playoff odds strong. Topics include what to make of Atlanta’s not-so-terrible 6-7 record, the problems (or lack thereof) presented by the Falcons defense, the unique weapons that are Kyle Pitts and Cordarrelle Patterson, checking in on Matt Ryan, and our favorite made-up punt style. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David and Oscar react to the roller coaster of emotions that was San Francisco’s OT win in Cincy. Topics include standout performances from George Kittle and Nick Bosa, Zac Taylor trying to out-49ers the 49ers early, the 49ers offense struggling right up until the end, another up-and-down day from Jimmy G, and a rough day for San Francisco’s rookie CB.  tickpick.com/rivals Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David and Oscar preview what could be a sneaky shootout in Cincy. Topics include the emergence of Joe Burrow, whether the 49ers secondary will be able to match up with JaMarr Chase and Tee Higgins, asking if we’ve been too hard on the 49ers’ offense, and what’s changed for them over the past six weeks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David and Oscar talk through a chaotic and wildly frustrating loss to the Seahawks. Topics include not being able to rely on the run game again, the better QB ultimately winning the game, not capitalizing on Seattle mistakes (again), and an awful offensive showing in the second half.  tickpick.com/rivals Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David and Oscar preview a trip to Seattle that feels a little different than previous seasons. Topics include how to attack a struggling Seattle defense, what the 49ers can do to combat a depleted linebacking corps, Eric Eager’s recent article on the value of perfectly blocked run and pass plays and how that relates to the 49ers’ recent resurgence. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David and Oscar recap a huge win over the Vikings that puts the 49ers firmly back into the playoff picture. Topics include another dominant rushing performance, overcoming the end to Jimmy Garoppolo’s hot streak, capitalizing on Kirk Cousins’ mistakes, and looking ahead to the final month-and-a-half of the season. tickpick.com/rivals Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

BORTLES! David and Oscar recap a dominant 49ers win in Jacksonville. Topics include the Jaguars being who we thought they were, their defense almost putting up a fight, Shanahan finding a balance to feature his best playmakers, Jimmy Garoppolo’s performance in the shotgun, and the continuing roller coaster that is San Francisco’s playoff push.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David and Oscar get you ready for a game the 49ers SHOULD win as they attempt to claw back to .500 in Jacksonville. Topics include Trevor Lawrence’s performance and his lack of help, a surging Jacksonville pass defense, and an interview with Joe Fann, host of the Bet to Wynn podcast and formerly of 49ers.com and NBC Sports Northwest. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David and Oscar break down a surprising upset win over the Rams on MNF as the 49ers cling to hopes of a playoff berth. Topics include how Kyle Shanahan is finding his mojo in the run game, Jimmy Garapollo’s run of positive play, the 49ers finally getting some bounces to go their way, and what all of this means for the big picture.  tickpick.com/rivals Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David and Oscar recap another home loss for the 49ers, as they fall to the Colt McCoy-led Cardinals. Topics include how the 49ers don’t have two things that match, the lack of urgency from Kyle Shanahan’s decision making, what we missed in our preseason predictions for this team, and whether it’s time to turn the page on the 2021 season.  tickpick.com/rivals Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David and Oscar get you ready for the 49ers’ rematch with the Cardinals. Topics include the likelihood San Francisco is able to repeat their stellar defensive effort from the first game, how the return of George Kittle impacts their third-down woes, and what we expect from the addition of Charles Omenihu. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s a Halloween miracle! David and Oscar crack open some fall beers and recap the first 49ers’ victory in over a month. Topics include how the defense did just enough to help notch the win, Jimmy G & Co. clicking for the first time since Week 1, and Deebo and Aiyuk give us the first glimpse of what 49ers fans have been hoping for all season from this receiving corps.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David and Oscar preview a Halloween matchup that makes us want to cover our eyes, when the 49ers travel to Chicago to take on the Bears. Topics include the struggling Bears offense, what we’ve seen from Justin Fields so far this season, how a banged up Bears defensive line opens the door for the 49ers offense to find their way, and thoughts on Jimmy Garoppolo trade rumors. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David and Oscar react to everything that went wrong for the 49ers against the Colts on Sunday Night Football, and try to figure out where San Francisco goes from here. Topics include what was different about the offense’s opening drive from the rest of the game, the Colts’ plan for third-down success against the 49ers defense, and whether this team has any hopes of making a playoff run. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David and Oscar return from a bye-week break to get you ready for a game the 49ers have to have against the Colts. Topics include how concerned should the 49ers be about a 2-4 team, the difference in Carson Wentz from the last time we saw him, whether a struggling Colts defense is actually a bad matchup for San Francisco’s offense, and what happens if the 49ers lose. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David and Oscar detail all you need to know from another close 49ers loss, including what to make of San Francisco’s offense in Trey Lance’s first start, Kyle Shanahan’s sudden fourth-down aggressiveness, and an inspired performance from the 49ers defense against a Cardinals offense that had been firing on all cylinders. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David and Oscar get you ready for a difficult divisional matchup with the undefeated Arizona Cardinals. Topics include takeaways after watching the all-22 of Trey Lance’s first significant action of the season, what the 49ers need to do to have a hope of slowing down Kyler Murray and the Cardinals’ explosive passing attack, and whether the 49ers will break out of their third-down shackles on offense. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David and Oscar talk through it after a rough loss to the division rival Seahawks, looking at how the 49ers were unable to capitalize on their early dominance, whether Trey Lance’s performance justifies Shanahan’s decision to stick with Jimmy, the brilliance of Deebo Samuel, and what you should be most worried about after this loss. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David and Oscar dive deep into all you need to know about the 49ers’ first divisional matchup of the season, including Russell Wilson being the anti-Jimmy, how the new-look Seahawks offense matches up with San Francisco’s defense, and why the stars look aligned for Garoppolo to have a bounceback performance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David and Oscar react to all the major storylines coming out of the 49ers’ heartbreaking SNF loss to the Packers, including Green Bay’s offensive game plan to negate San Francisco’s pass rush, Jimmy Garoppolo’s shaky performance, and whether there’s someone to blame for these woes.  tickpick.com/rivals Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David and Oscar get you ready for the 49ers’ primetime battle with Aaron Rodgers and the Packers. Topics include Brandon Aiyuk’s rough start to the season and whether things will get turned around this week, who starts at CB if Emmanuel Moseley is healthy, whether San Francisco’s pass defense can continue outperforming expectations, and where the 49ers offense will be able to attack a struggling Packers defense. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David and Oscar breakdown everything you need to know following the 49ers’ narrow 17-11 victory over the Eagles, including how DeMeco Ryans and the defense rose to the occasion, the offense’s struggles on first down, and Jimmy Garappolo’s lackluster performance that was much worse than the box score would lead you to believe. Visit tickpick.com/rivals today and use the promo code RIVALS to save $10 on your first order of 49ers tickets! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David and Oscar dive deep on on the 49ers’ issues in run defense against the Lions, whether they’ll be able to fix those issues in time for the Eagles’ wide open offense, and what DeMeco Ryans will need to do to contain Jalen Hurts and an explosive group of young wideouts. All that, plus quick thoughts on San Francisco’s latest roster additions and how the loss of Dre Greenlaw impacts the linebacking corps. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s game recap episode of the Better Rivals podcast, the 49ers fend off the fighting Dan Campbells to hold on to their season-opening victory. What had San Francisco’s offense clicking on all cylinders? What were our first impressions of new defensive coordinator DeMeco Ryans? And how worried should you be about near collapse late?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, it’s time to preview the 2021 season! Is the environment set for the 49ers to have a rebound year? How will they look to dictate offensively and where do they need to improve to do so more effectively? And what sort of tendency changes will we see from San Francisco’s defense under the leadership of DeMeco Ryans? All that, plus the 2021 breakout player, more superlatives, and the importance of dessert on the Bourbon Trail.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, the preseason is officially at an end and we offer up our takeaways from the 49ers’ final preseason action as well as the final 53-man roster. Which position did San Francisco unsurprisingly load up on? Were there any roster moves that left us scratching our heads? And how much of that 2QB system do we expect to see when the games start counting? All that, plus how the offense looked in that 2QB system, Trey Lance’s continued development, and preparing for the Bourbon Trail.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, we’re bringing the hype episode back! There are a lot of players getting hype after two weeks of preseason, but which hype should you be buying? Can one of the rookie DBs really carve out a starting role? Is Trent Sherfield the answer as the team’s third wideout? And which new pass rusher should you have your eye on? All that, plus what we learned from the preseason win over the Chargers, the Trey Lance roller coaster continues, and living that sweet percussive therapy life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, we’ve got actual football to talk about! We focus in on Trey Lance and the rest of the newcomers’ performance in the 49ers’ first preseason game before getting into a mini Scheme Month on Shanahan’s shot plays. Which young players broke the shackles of their priors? What should you take away from Lance’s first NFL action? And how has Shanahan looked to dial up deep throws during his time in San Francisco?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, real football is right around the corner and it’s time for Scheme(mini-)Month! We go deep on the QB run game and how we might see the 49ers’ offense change in both the short- and long-term with Trey Lance . What makes QB runs effective? How can you identify option plays? And where did Lance have success as a runner in college? All that, plus Lance camp buzz, odds of trading Garoppolo, and Mike McGlinchey’s offseason transformation.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, real football is right around the corner and it’s time for Scheme(mini-)Month! We go deep on the QB run game and how we might see the 49ers’ offense change in both the short- and long-term with Trey Lance . What makes QB runs effective? How can you identify option plays? And where did Lance have success as a runner in college? All that, plus Lance camp buzz, odds of trading Garoppolo, and Mike McGlinchey’s offseason transformation.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, Training Camp is officially under way! David pays real close attention to the interior of the 49ers defensive line, Kevin Cole joins to provide an outsider’s perspective on the 49ers fantasy football prospects, and we try to answer the age old question: Which 49ers running back should you draft? All that plus Aiyuk’s breakout, how high is too high to draft Kittle, and an Arnaz Battle sighting.  Submit your Blue Wire Hustle application here: http://bwhustle.com/join Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

DOWNLOAD AND WATCH THE GAME BEFORE LISTENING On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, it’s another blast from the past as we rewatch Jerry Rice’s final home game in a 49ers uniform. How did the 49ers offense compare to the game from our previous rewatch against the Cowboys? Were the Bears even trying on offense? And should the NFL have a “Rice Rule” similar to Bird Rights in the NBA? All that, plus Fred Warner becomes the league’s highest-paid LB, John Madden’s brilliance, and the peak of trash TV.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, we pull a game from the vault and rewatch the T.O. star game. There were some memorable fireworks, but how does this game hold up over 20 years later? What fun wrinkles did we see from the 49ers offense that are extinct in today’s game? And which forgotten players had us feeling nostalgic? All that, plus Kyle Shanahan’s appearance on the Flying Coach podcast, Ump Cam, and the intricacies of soccer penalty kicks.  49ers @ Cowboys - Week 4, 2000 (YouTube) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Eric Eager, data scientist at Pro Football Focus, joins to discuss his head coaching rankings, why he left Kyle Shanahan out of the top 7, and what makes a good play caller. All that plus old school 49ers, the best 49er bet, and the poops per day metric. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, OTAs are a wrap and we run through the top storylines as we enter the NFL dead zone. How worried should you be about the early injuries? Should the 49ers have been willing to meet the asking price for Julio Jones? And will they be able to get enough production at WR after their top two options? All that, plus lots of off-topic rambling on TV shows, dad stuff, and being Champions of Europe.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, we wrap up our draft scouting reports with San Francisco’s pair of new running backs, Trey Sermon and Elijah Mitchell. How do these two players differ stylistically? How well do they fit within the 49ers’ running game? And where do we think they need to improve as they transition to the NFL? All that, plus follow-up thoughts on Aaron Banks, interesting articles we read this week, and Oscar yelling at the youths. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, our scouting reports on the 49ers’ draftees continue with a look at Aaron Banks and Jaylon Moore. Banks is a large human, but does he play that way on tape? What does a successful rookie season look like for the second rounder? And will Moore be the next 5th round success story for Lynchahan? All that, plus early thoughts on the schedule, answering Patreon questions, and vacation beers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, we take a deep dive into improving QB accuracy and kick off our draft scouting reports. Have we seen QBs improve their accuracy when moving from college to the pros? Why does it ultimately matter if Trey Lance improves his accuracy or not? And which draft pick in the secondary do we think has the best chance to become a contributor for the 49ers defense? All that, plus Champions League, Cinco de Mayo trivia, and margaritas? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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On this special NFL Draft episode of the Better Rivals podcast, the 49ers finally have their QB of the future! We offer up our reactions after a crazy day that ended with Trey Lance as Kyle Shanahan’s hand-picked signal caller. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kyle Shanahan and John Lynch discussed a lot without saying much in their pre-draft press conference. That didn't;t stop Kyle Shanahan from getting defensive about quarterback evaluation. Did we learn anything new? We discuss in the first of a few shows coming this week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, we turn our attention away from the QB conversation to take a look at DBs who could be on the board on day two. Which slot/safety hybrids do we think have the skills to transition well to the next level? Who are the top options at outside CB outside of the first round? And how are we feeling about this DB class and the 49ers’ chances of finding a quality player on day two? All that, plus pre-draft signings, number anarchy, and the Super League disaster. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week, we're joined by Dan Hatman, the Director of Scouting at The Scouting Academy. A veteran of three NFL front offices, Dan joins to discuss the inner workings of the draft process and helps answer the question on everyone's mind: Do Pro Days really matter? All that, plus wild workout tests, a burger pivot, and plants growing before flowers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, we continue our deep dive on the top QBs in the 2021 draft class with a look at Mac Jones and Trey Lance. Do Jones and Lance share any similarities? What will the selection of either of these prospects say about what Kyle Shanahan and the 49ers are looking for at the QB position? And how do these players stack up with Zach Wilson and Justin Fields? All that, plus what we value at QB, what we think Shanahan values, and which player we’d choose if we had to make the call at No. 3 overall. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, we kick off our deep dive on the top QBs in the 2021 draft class with a discussion on Zach Wilson and Justin Fields. What is Kyle Shanahan looking for in a QB and has his profile changed? What traits make both Wilson and Fields fits for the 49ers? And what will each prospect need to work on to reach their ceiling in the NFL? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

IT’S AN EMERGENCY DRAFT TRADE POD! We answer all of the important questions after the 49ers’ blockbuster trade to move up to the No. 3 overall pick. Why make this trade now? Is a QB really worth everything that they gave up? And do we have any idea who they might be targeting? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, the 49ers close out the second wave of free agency by pairing some returning starters with a new insurance policy. Will Tavon Wilson challenge for a starting safety spot? Why is Zach Kerr our favorite newcomer? And what’s the state of the 49ers roster as we pivot into draft mode? All that, plus positions to watch in the draft, jean shorts, and screaming at Jared Goff. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, the offseason is officially off and running! Did the 49ers make the right moves in retaining their own? What can we expect from new edge rusher Samson Ebukam? And will Alex Mack be the player who finally solidifies the fulcrum of the offensive line? All that, plus positions of focus over the rest of free agency, saying goodbye to some now former 49ers, and juice takes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, we conclude our free agency preview with a look at how the 49ers could restock along the defensive line. Does it make sense for the team to spend significant cap space on the DL this offseason? Which high-impact target would we consider splurging for? And, if we were in charge, what would we prioritize when free agency kicks off next week? All that, plus the team’s likely cap situation, who should the 49ers look to re-sign from last year’s DL, and why Timo Werner is actually a fullback. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, our free agency preview continues with an eye to the offensive side of the ball. What could the 49ers do at tackle if they don’t manage to keep Trent Williams in the building? Is Alex Mack worth the money at this stage of his career? And is Kyle Juszczyk so unique that the 49ers should pony up again to bring him back? All that, plus the barren guard market, a few names at WR and TE we find interesting, and French fries on cheeseburgers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, it’s time to kick off our free agency primers with a look at DB options in this year’s class. What type of players do we expect the 49ers to target? Will we see the team look to add multiple players at CB? And while there are a number of talented safeties set to hit the open market, do any of them make sense for San Francisco? All that, plus lessons from Shaq Barrett, the glut of available slot CBs, and surviving the Texas Hunger Games. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, George Chahrouri, CXO at Pro Football Focus and fellow 49ers fan, joins to discuss the lessons learned from Super Bowl LV. Was the 49ers roster building strategy validated? And what moves should the 49ers make to get back to the mountain top? All that, plus rage eating an avocado, QB word association, and being besties with Richard Sherman. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, Joe McAtee from Beyond the Horns joins to discuss what Matt Stafford shows about the Rams team building philosophy, and whether they will be able to sustain a winning roster. And Jeff Deeny, fellow 49ers fan and analyst at PFF, joins to discuss whether or not Kirk Cousins is actually any good. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, Seth Galina joins to discuss the question Shanahan and Lynch are likely discussing right now: Should the 49ers trade for Matt Stafford? From decelerating your front half, to bender seams, and even some draft talk, we look at the best path to keeping the 49ers Super Bowl window open. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, Matt Barrows of The Athletic joins to discuss all the recent coaching and front office moves. What kind of coach is DeMeco Ryans? What does Saleh’s promotion mean for the rest of the coaching staff? Why did Martin Mayhew get a GM role before Adam Peters? All that plus a Cowboy burning some furniture, Deshaun Watson trade packages, and Scangarello’s son vs Shanahan’s son. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, it’s time to put a bow on a forgettable 2020 season by taking a look back at what we thought would happen before it all started. Which players lived up to the hype? Did the defense manage to stave off regression? And did we learn anything about Jimmy Garoppolo in his limited action this season? All that, plus quick thoughts on the Seattle game, an ode to Robert Saleh, and cedar fever. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, the 49ers find a way to end 2020 with a win. How did the Cardinals defense get choked out by the 49ers’ ground attack? Are the 49ers really that bad at containing QB scrambles? And, as we look ahead to the offseason, is there a path to a good QB in 2021? All that, plus Verrett vs. Hopkins, the Class of 2017 comes through, and getting our faces twisted off. Submit your Blue Wire Hustle application here: http://bwhustle.com/join Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, the 49ers playoff hopes are officially dead. What ultimately killed the 49ers’ changes against the Cowboys? After getting a close-up look at CeeDee Lamb, how are we feeling about Brandon Aiyuk? And, as we start to turn our attention toward the offseason, which pending free agents do we have our eyes on? All that, plus looking back at players the 49ers have traded up to get, we have some Pro Bowlers, and the return of The Gauntlet. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, the 49ers lose to a team with no name. Is the 49ers’ offensive line actually bad? Why does Nick Mullens struggle so much under pressure? And what stood out from a defensive effort that was good enough to win? All that, plus pouring some out for the homies, Shanahan’s fourth down decision, and thoughts on a better matchup against the Cowboys. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, Josh Allen and the Bills stomp both the 49ers’ playoff chances and our hearts. What on earth happened to San Francisco’s pass coverage? Does Sherman have anything left in the tank? And why wasn’t Nick Mullens & Co. able to keep pace? All that, plus a surprisingly good game from San Francisco’s barnacle, poor Tevin Coleman, and what to expect against the Football Team. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, a win over the Rams has the 49ers taking a whiff of that playoff air! How did the secondary help fuel an unexpected win? Has anyone managed to tackle Deebo yet? And what happened to that whole holding down Aaron Donald thing? All that, plus Mullens gonna Mullens, the 49ers viability for a playoff spot, and quick thoughts on the Bills. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, we take a look inward and do some self-scouting with the 49ers on bye. What should the 49ers do with Jimmy G after this season? Is Shanahan actually being too conservative on 4th down? And will the coming reinforcements be enough to help the 49ers push for a playoff spot? All that, plus defensive tendencies, quick thoughts on the Rams, and Jolly Jumpers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, the 49ers nearly followed the underdog game plan to an upset win in New Orleans but couldn’t hold on. What is the underdog game plan? Where did things start to fall apart? And what are the questions we’re starting to think about for 2021? All that, plus an over-performing defense, Jordan Willis wasn’t terrible, and breaking down the Sicilian defense. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, a depleted 49ers roster gets run out of the building by Aaron Rodgers & Co. How did Rodgers and the Green Bay passing attack pick apart San Francisco’s defense? How did the team’s tinkering along the offensive line play out? And where do things stand with Kyle Shanahan and Robert Saleh as we begin to look ahead to 2021? All that, plus Richie James as Brandon Aiyuk’s stunt double, Ahkello Witherspoon going full Pettis, and Kevin White still can’t get any snaps. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, it might be November but it’s time to dawn those Elegant Tanks. What did we learn from an absolute beatdown at the hands of the Seahawks? What happened to the 49ers’ offense and why weren’t they able to keep pace? And are the 49ers already starting to look ahead to 2021? All that, plus Brandon Aiyuk as one of the lone bright spots, moving on from Kwon Alexander, and quick thoughts on Thursday’s matchup with the Packers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, the 49ers dominate the Patriots in a much needed win to keep their season on track. How did Shanahan attack New England’s defense with another excellent gameplan? Why wasn’t Cam Newton able to take advantage of a 49ers’ defense that has struggled against QB runs? And how did San Francisco’s makeshift secondary hold up in coverage? All that, plus Fred Warner for DPOY, checking in on the playoff picture, and what we’ll be looking for against the Seahawks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, the 49ers keep their season alive with a win over the Rams. How did an excellent game plan from Kyle Shanahan get the 49ers out to a fast start? Was Jimmy G actually back? And where did the Rams miss some opportunities that could’ve made this a much different game? All that, plus it’s nice having multiple competent CBs, expectations for Jordan Willis, and a pulse check on the 49ers’ season entering this week’s game against the Patriots. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, things sure aren’t feeling great after the 49ers were embarrassed by the Dolphins. Where did things fall apart defensively against Fitzmagic & Co.? Why was the offensive performance even more concerning? And is there any hope that they’ll be able to turn things around and get back into the playoff hunt? All that, plus offensive line issues, Robert Saleh’s share of the blame, and a fantasy football update that no one cares about. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, it’s an especially whompy Whomp Whomp Wednesday. Just how bad was Nick Mullens against the Eagles? Does CJ Beathard offer any semblance of hope? And how did Philly’s defensive line tilt the game in their favor? All that, plus George Kittle’s wasted performance, looking ahead to a brutal schedule, and Milkshake IPAs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, the 49ers were undermanned but not overmatched as they roll in New York for a second straight week. Should there be a QB controversy after MOFO Mullens’ performance? How did San Francisco’s reinforcements hold up on defense? And what can the 49ers do to slow down the QB runs that have been giving them so much trouble? All that, plus Fred Warner continues to be excellent, Saleh tries to manufacture pressure, and quick thoughts on Carson Wentz and the Eagles. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, the 49ers trounced the Jets and yet it still felt like a loss. What changed with Jimmy G during his much improved first-half performance? What’s going on with Mike McGlinchey? And how do the 49ers move forward after suffering a number of key injuries? All that, plus Robert Saleh mixing up coverages, the best player left on San Francisco’s defense, and someone please play The Happy Song for Nick Mullens. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, it’s the first whomp whomp Wednesday of the 2020 season as we dive deep into the issues that plagued the 49ers in their loss to the Cardinals. Where did Jimmy Garoppolo fall short in the season opener? What led to the 49ers’ struggles on third and fourth down? And why was DeAndre Hopkins able to find so much success against San Francisco’s pass coverage? All that, plus our panic level, impressive debuts from Javon Kinlaw and Trent Williams, and previewing a should-win game against the Jets. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, football is here! It’s time to preview the 2020 season and figure out where we expect the 49ers to land. How much regression will we see from a defense that made a worst-to-first leap last season? Will the offense be able to offset any drop in performance from the other side of the ball? And where will Jimmy Garoppolo need to improve to show that he can be a great (and not just good) QB? All that, plus thoughts on the much larger practice squad, the state of the DL post-Buckner, and the best- and worst-case scenarios for the 49ers this season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, real football is sneaking up on us and it’s (somehow) time to preview the NFC West. Will the Seahawks manage to continue 2019’s success in one-score games? Will Kyler Murray take a leap in his second season and raise the Cardinals to playoff contention? And is there anything the Rams can do to help set Jared Goff up for success? All that, plus manufactured crowd noise, injury updates, and Isaiah Simmons shade. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, IT’S TIME TO GET HYPE! Camp is full of hype and hope, but who should you really be buying into? Which rookie are we all in on? And will any of the players returning from injury manage to regain their pre-injury form? All that, plus Earl Thomas isn’t in the 49ers’ plans, center is a complete disaster, and no one cares about Oscar’s fantasy team. https://www.theragun.com/bluewire Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, Scheme Month comes to a close with a look at Shanahan’s run game. What really drove the success of the 49ers’ run game last season? How can the 49ers adjust their base outside zone scheme to account for any potential defense they might face? And what was different about their run game in 2019? All that, plus George Kittle’s new contract, why the lack of depth at center is concerning, and John Lynch’s margaritas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, Scheme Month continues with a look at some Shanahan favorites in a few key, specialized situations. Which staple concept shows up often in the red zone? How does Shanahan exploit one-on-one matchups in the two-minute drill? And what’s one concept he looks to when needing to push the ball downfield if the 49ers find themselves trailing in the fourth quarter? All that, plus a George Kittle non-update update, Tavon Austin gets a workout, and Lil Bow Wow’s hypothetical status among 8 year olds. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, we reach the moment Scheme Month has been training for: Shanahan’s favorite pass concepts. What concept provides the foundation for Shanahan’s play action attack on first down? Which West Coast classic does he go to on third-and-short? And how does he look to attack defenses on those critical third-and-longs? All that, plus players are reporting, John Lynch gets extended, and the 49ers have a new tight end. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, Scheme Month is matriculating the ball down the field with a look at how offenses attack different coverages. What are the weaknesses of each coverage type? What tricks does the offense have up its sleeve to attack man coverage? And what are the different ways they’ll look to stretch zone coverages? All that, plus geometry, banjoes, and pre-game Viagra. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, it’s officially time for Scheme Month! Kicking things off, we’re digging into the basics of how coverages work. What are the three basic types of coverage? How do teams divide up the field into zones? And what are players ultimately responsible for in those zones? All that, plus how to identify a defender’s role in coverage, the 49ers are opening up training camp, and an update on Raheem Mostert. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices