No. 1: Pressure Matthew Stafford and force him into making turnovers
If there’s one thing that’s evident from the Lions quarterback’s Monday night performance, it’s that Matthew Stafford forced too many throws. He came away with a four-interception game and was making errant throws throughout.
The Jets weren’t able to sack him, but they hurried him and continuously hit him every chance they could. Getting after the quarterback is something the 49ers must do when they go up against the Lions offense.
Last week, the pass rush was harassing Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins for much of game, as the Niners sacked him three times (2.5 sacks by DeForest Buckner) and had nine quarterback hits. If the 49ers secondary can cover the talented Lions receivers, then the Detroit passing game will be almost nonexistent.
Couple this in with the lack of a run game by Detroit’s offense (39 yards on 15 carries in Week 1), and the 49ers defense should have a big game.