"The offense has been hit and miss and the defense could use a lot more in the way of interceptions and quarterback pressures. Yet where the 49ers have made an upgrade that has contributed to a 6-3 record is on special teams, and it's more than just the string of can't-miss bullseyes from place kicker Eddy Pineiro. It's better kick coverage and a better return game with lots of new faces, including special teams coordinator Brant Boyer."
"After missing his first extra point again with the fan base thinking Oh, here we go again, Pineiro has been perfect. He's made his last 14 conversions and is 19-for-19 on field goal attempts. And although Pineiro was considered a safe option who would hit makeable field goals but not necessarily deliver from long-distance, but he's 6-for-6 from 50 yards and beyond."
"There has been only one big bust that's helped cost the 49ers a game, an 87-yard punt return for a touchdown by Parker Washington in a 26-21 loss to Jacksonville on Sept. 28. Otherwise, the 49ers have not only met coach Kyle Shanahan's wish of not costing the 49ers' games, but have contributed to winning them. I've been really proud of our special teams this year, Shanahan said in advance of a 34-24 win over the New York Giants."
The 49ers' offense has been inconsistent and the defense lacks interceptions and quarterback pressures. Special teams have become a notable upgrade, contributing to a 6-3 record through improved kick coverage, a stronger return game and several new personnel additions, including coordinator Brant Boyer. Kicker Eddy Pineiro replaced Jake Moody and, after an initial missed extra point, has been perfect on his last 14 conversions and 19-for-19 on field goals, including 6-for-6 from 50 yards and beyond. Special teams produced one costly 87-yard punt return but also delivered a key blocked extra point and generally supported wins.
Read at www.mercurynews.com
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