What We Learned About 49ers Defense in Joint Practice with Titans

Buckle up.

IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

SANTA CLARA -- The San Francisco 49ers concluded an intense joint practice against the Tennessee Titans, where the 49ers defense set the tone.

The first scrimmage period started with four fights in the first 10 minutes. The first fight began after the first play; Cam Ward threw a ball intended for a Titans wide receiver toward the sideline, and Renardo Green laid the receiver out, with a scuffle ensuing.

“I mean, I don’t want it (fights) because we have a rule on both sides: If you throw a punch, you’re out,” 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan said. “So, I think we got two guys thrown out, I’m not sure … but you don’t really care about scuffles. You just hate losing guys.”

This set the tone for the 49ers defense as it took advantage of the Titans offense by being more physical and prepared.

The 49ers secondary looked strong, leaving few holes for Ward to throw into, notably giving fourth-overall pick Carnell Tate a hard day.

Safety Ji’Ayir Brown also intercepted Ward as he undercut a ball thrown to the middle of the field.

“I love our defensive back group. I don’t know if I’ve felt as confident about a back-end group in my career as I have right now,” Fred Warner said. “I think the way that group is meshing together, the way that they're playing sticky in coverage, playing the ball in the air … I think it’s one of the best I’ve seen this far. I’m really excited about what I’m seeing.”

The 49ers competition for their second cornerback spot opposite Deommodore Lenoir between Jack Jones and Green is as competitive as ever. Although Green had a strong day, Jones continues to respond with strong play.

The 49ers run defense struggled, showing weaknesses as Titans running backs found open grass on multiple occasions.

The Titans were able to move the 49ers defensive line, which created holes in the run game, something the 49ers have struggled with over the last couple of years.

On the other hand, the pass rush looked strong, as the 49ers seemed to be in the backfield all day, frustrating the Titans offensive line. The highlight was an Osa Odighizuwa would-be sack of Ward.

On the day, the 49ers defense had the upper hand against the Titans offense. The teams will continue to build toward the regular season in their first preseason game Aug. 13 at Levi’s Stadium at 6 p.m.