Minnesota will give up yards on the ground, but not big plays or touchdowns
The 49ers are a middle-of-the-road rushing team. They average 4.2 yards per carry, which is tied for sixteenth in the league. However, they are tied for the seventh-most rushing touchdowns this season with 12.
The good news for the Minnesota Vikings is that they have been good against the run near the goal line. They have only allowed eight rushing touchdowns this season, Plus, they have only allowed three rushes of 20+ yards and have yet to give up a run of 40 yards or more.
Much of this can be attributed to good tackling. Players like Eric Kendricks and Harrison Smith don’t make a lot of mistakes against the run that result in big gains for opponents. Mike Zimmer preaches the fundamentals and the importance of having his players in the correct position.
Minnesota’s effectiveness in containing the run will force the 49ers to attack through the air, where Jimmy Garoppolo has only thrown 12 total touchdowns on the season compared to five interceptions.