3 keys to victory for the Broncos against the 49ers

In the upcoming Week 4 matchup, the Denver Broncos will face the undefeated San Francisco 49ers. With a 2-1 record, the Broncos will need to employ several strategies to secure a victory against the skilled 49ers offense. Here are three key factors to consider:

1. Keep George Kittle in check: The 49ers' tight end has been a significant threat, with 10 catches for 162 yards and three touchdowns in their last two games. To counteract Kittle's impact, the Broncos' inside linebackers, Alex Singleton and Justin Strnad, must work together to cover him effectively. Safeties Talanoa Hufanga and Brandon Jones will need to provide support, forcing Brock Purdy to distribute the throws more evenly to avoid giving Kittle an open lane.

If Mike Evans is unable to play due to injury, this strategy becomes even more critical for the Broncos.

2. Avoid giving up the big play: In their three-game winning streak, the 49ers have demonstrated the ability to score big plays. They ran 50 offensive plays while accumulating 81 yards and 21 minutes of possession time, ultimately winning the game. The 49ers scored six explosive plays of 20 yards or more, including an 80-yard touchdown reception and a 35-yard run by Purdy.

To secure a win, the Broncos must limit these big plays. Controlling the clock and minimizing the opponent's possession time are crucial strategies to employ.

3. Fluster Brock Purdy: The 49ers' quarterback has been exceptional this season, with zero sacks throughout the first three games. To challenge Purdy, the Broncos need to break through their defense and force him to make mistakes. Whether it's creating chaos with their defensive unit or strategically targeting his weak spots, the Broncos must prevent Purdy from executing his plays effectively. If the Broncos can successfully disrupt Purdy's performance, they significantly increase their chances of winning the game.