Revisiting the top Week 15 Falcons-49ers matchups

The Atlanta Falcons obliterated the San Francisco 49ers in a 41-13 rout, making it the second time this season they’ve scored 40 points in back-to-back games.

Let’s revisit the top three matchups from the game.

Falcons run defense versus Carlos Hyde and Colin Kaepernick

Atlanta’s run defense held Hyde to 71 yards on the ground — a week after he posted 193 yards. Admittedly, Hyde perhaps could’ve done more with more touches. He had 13 as the 49ers were forced to pass 33 times since they were in a 21-0 hole almost immediately.

Kaepernick had just three rushes for 21 yards. Vic Beasley being used as a spy likely had a lot to do with that.

Devonta Freeman and Tevin Coleman versus the 49ers defense

San Francisco’s defense against the run was as bad as advertised. Freeman went off for 139 yards and three touchdowns, Coleman finished with 58 yards on 14 carries, and even third-string running back Terron Ward put up 52 yards. With Matt Ryan’s -1 yard rush, the Falcons totaled 249 on the ground.

Taylor Gabriel versus the 49ers defense

It was more of the same for Gabriel as he caught three passes for 60 yards and a score. He’s now found the end zone in six of the Falcons’ past seven games. Here’s another opportunity to thank our friends in Cleveland.