Christian McCaffrey has been a key player for the 49ers since his return from injury. He has emphasized that he only comes off the field if he feels he can’t perform at his best. Despite his dominant presence on the field, his backup Jordan Mason and rookie Isaac Guerendo have seen limited playing time.
Coach Kyle Shanahan explained that the team is not looking to rotate running backs extensively, especially with a solid starter like McCaffrey. The focus is on keeping McCaffrey fresh while allowing him to improve as the game progresses. In the games since McCaffrey’s return, he has had a solid performance but has not scored any touchdowns, a notable difference from his previous season.
The team’s offensive strategy has also been influenced by the game situations, with the 49ers often playing from behind. This has limited the opportunities for running plays and affected the rotation of offensive players. Shanahan acknowledged that the team needs to run the ball more effectively, especially in upcoming games where weather conditions could impact the passing game.
As the 49ers prepare to face the Buffalo Bills, the emphasis may shift towards utilizing the running game more effectively to counter challenging weather conditions. Despite the recent struggles, McCaffrey remains a key asset for the team and is focused on making a positive impact on the field. The upcoming games will test the team’s ability to adapt their strategy and optimize their running back rotation for success.
