Whenever he’s asked about the 49ers’ problems in converting third downs, Alex Smith says it has everything to do with first down. That is, the 49ers offense needs to…
Extra Point:Obviously what you do in the first two downs impacts the ability to convert on third down - but if the Niners are to be a Super Bowl worthy offense, they need to be able to convert on any down (like the Broncos did on Sunday). That means allowing Smith the opportunity to move the chains in chunks, but still at a pace that gives the defense its rest. The Niners will have to protect Smith well to do that.
