49ers DBs credit front pressure that halted Patriots passing game originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

SANTA CLARA — Jacoby Brissett wasn’t the only one feeling the pressure the 49ers defensive line applied in Sunday’s 30-13 victory over the New England Patriots.

The 49ers’ secondary — who watched their teammates sack the Patriots quarterback six times and harass him constantly — felt this, too. And they really appreciated that.

“Those guys left today,” 49ers safety Ji’Ayir Brown said after the game. “They had a goal, they came in every game with a goal, but we had to get back to playing like we do, and they are a crucial force in the way we represent our defense, and they came out of it.

“If you have to guard a guy for two and a half seconds, it’s pretty easy.”

The Patriots averaged just 3.3 yards per passing play, compared to the 49ers’ 10.1, while Brissett completed 19 of his 32 passes for 168 yards and lost 25 yards on the six sacks. New England totaled a paltry 3.5 yards per play, compared to San Francisco’s 7.2.

Cornerback Deommodore Lenoir also recognized his defensive teammates, who kept him from having to cover his receiver for extended periods of time with their constant pressure on Brissett.

“Oh yeah, they were hunting all day today,” Lenoir said. “I take my hat off to them. Just getting back on track, dominating and winning their 1-on-1 games. I have to leave it to my guys.”

Coach Kyle Shanahan, who noted his defense’s shortcomings in the 49ers’ previous two losses, was pleased with the unit’s performance, especially as it allowed the Patriots to convert just 5 of 16 third-down attempts.

“I thought the defense was great all day,” Shanahan said. “From what I saw there, it looked like they were dominating the run and pass game. Especially after losing to Hargrave last week, we really had to step up, and when Jordan lost in this game too, it just made things worse.” for.” They were down a man, and I thought they played well the entire game – from the first quarter to the fourth.”

Shanahan and Co. hope to keep the momentum going next Sunday when the 49ers (2-2) welcome the NFC West rival Arizona Cardinals (1-3) to the Bay Area.

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