How to Slow Down Travis Kelce: Insights from the 49ers vs. Chiefs Game

TLDRThe 49ers will face the Chiefs and their star quarterback, Patrick Mahomes. One of Mahomes' most consistent weapons is tight end Travis Kelce. This video analyzes how the Ravens guarded Kelce and suggests strategies for the 49ers to shut down the Chiefs' offense. It also highlights the importance of aggressive coverage, matching up personnel effectively, and generating pressure on Mahomes.

Key insights

🔒The 49ers should employ a bigger cornerback or linebacker, like Fred Warner, to guard Travis Kelce and disrupt his routes.

💥Having a floating Hitman like Dre Greenlaw can provide additional support to break up plays involving Kelce and deliver impactful tackles.

🚫The 49ers can utilize their safeties, such as Gibson or Jaquiski Tartt, to provide coverage support and prevent Kelce from getting open.

👤A QB spy can limit Mahomes' ability to run, forcing him to make riskier throws and potentially creating interception opportunities.

🔥Generating pressure on Mahomes is crucial; if the 49ers can't do it with their four-man front, they should consider blitzing to disrupt his timing.

Q&A

Who is the key player to watch out for in the Chiefs' offense?

Tight end Travis Kelce is one of the most consistent and dangerous weapons in the Chiefs' offense.

What strategies should the 49ers use to stop Kelce?

The 49ers should employ a mix of aggressive coverage, utilizing bigger cornerbacks or linebackers to guard Kelce, and providing additional support with a floating Hitman or safeties.

What can the 49ers learn from the Ravens' approach to guarding Kelce?

The 49ers can learn from the Ravens' mistakes and avoid mismatches. They should ensure they have the right personnel on Kelce and not leave him uncontested.

How can the 49ers generate pressure on Patrick Mahomes?

The 49ers should aim to generate pressure on Mahomes with their four-man front. If that is not successful, they can consider blitzing to disrupt Mahomes' timing.

How can a QB spy impact Mahomes' game?

A QB spy can limit Mahomes' ability to run, forcing him to stay in the pocket longer and potentially make riskier throws.

Timestamped Summary

00:00The 49ers face the Chiefs and their star quarterback, Patrick Mahomes.

00:23Analyzing the importance of guarding Travis Kelce effectively.

02:23Exploring how the Ravens failed to properly match up their personnel with Kelce.

04:30Highlighting the Raiders' successful strategy of disrupting Kelce and pressuring Mahomes.

05:54Discussing the need for the 49ers to employ a bigger cornerback or linebacker to guard Kelce.

03:59Suggesting the use of a floating Hitman to provide additional support and impactful tackles.

04:45Emphasizing the role of safeties in providing coverage support against Kelce.

06:37Highlighting the importance of generating pressure on Mahomes and considering blitzing if necessary.