(01-20-2020, 04:48 PM)jagibelieve Wrote: Interesting that we think about the run defense in the "modern era".

After all, in the "modern era" it's all about the passing game.  Yet the 49'ers are going to the Super Bowl after just 8 pass attempts in the Divisional Round of the playoffs and convincingly beating the Packers.  You can't win in the "modern NFL" by running the ball and having good defense.  That approach is "antiquated".  At least that is what many believe.

The game hasn't changed as much as people believe over the last 30 or 40 years.  Yes rules have been changed in the name of "player safety", but for the most part it's still the same game.  Move the ball 10 yards to get a first down.  Move the ball across the goal line to earn a touchdown.

It doesn't matter how it's done.  The problem is that the "modern fan" wants to see the "exciting long passes" in order to accomplish the goal of the game rather than long drives and running the ball.

The tacks couldn't win with Henry and didn't have the QB to keep up with Mahomes yesterday. The term "complimentary" football has been tossed around everywhere this season. That's all it boils down to. I don't care if they run it or throw it. Just do it effectively and act like you know what the hell you're doing with the football in just enough games to finish above .500. 

As good as the 49ERS ran the football against the Packers. I mostly saw that front four absolutely hammering Aaron Rodgers into the ground and harassing him when they needed to get it done. Green Bay sucks against the running game anyway. They were 23rd against it all year. They had 10 games this season where they allowed well over 100 yards on the ground. 

Shanahan schemed up against it. Mike Pettine got schooled. Defense did the rest. If it's anything we've seen over the years regardless of this era or that era? Defense wins Championships.

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