Mark Schlereth: What the 49ers must do to beat Denver

Former NFL offensive lineman and current Denver Sports host Mark Schlereth joined Carmichael Dave and Jason Ross to preview the San Francisco 49ers’ matchup with the Denver Broncos and break down what each team needs to do to win.

For the 49ers, Schlereth believes it starts with something San Francisco has done extremely well over the years: running the football.

“I think balance really helps,” Schlereth said. “If San Francisco controls the tempo of the game, runs the football, I think they win this game.”

That could be especially important with the 49ers dealing with wide receiver injuries, as Mike Evans’ status remains up in the air for Sunday’s action.

A strong running game would let San Francisco control the pace, take some pressure off Brock Purdy, and keep Denver from consistently teeing off in obvious passing situations.

Schlereth also had plenty of praise for Purdy, specifically when it comes to how quickly the 49ers quarterback processes what he sees from a defense.

“There’s two guys to me that process the fastest in football. It’s Joe Burrow and it’s Brock Purdy,” Schlereth said. “They instantly eliminate things as soon as they see them.”

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA – SEPTEMBER 27: Brock Purdy #13 of the San Francisco 49ers walks off the field after defeating the Arizona Cardinals 36-30 at Levi’s Stadium on September 27, 2026 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

That quick decision-making has been a major part of Purdy’s success, and Schlereth believes it also helps the 49ers keep their offense on schedule.

On the other side, Denver’s biggest concern is once again its ability to execute early in games. Schlereth said the Broncos have consistently put themselves behind the chains because of a combination of quarterback decisions, offensive-line mistakes and missed assignments.

“If they play clean early in this game, they’ll be tough to beat,” Schlereth said.

The Broncos have shown an ability to fight their way back into games, but falling into another early hole against San Francisco could be a major problem.

One of the biggest individual matchups to watch will involve 49ers left tackle Trent Williams. Schlereth, who spent 12 seasons playing offensive line in the NFL, was especially complimentary of the veteran tackle.

“That dude is so athletically gifted. He is so strong,” Schlereth said. “His movement skills are elite. His strength level is still elite.”

Schlereth also loves Williams’ mentality. Rather than simply trying to complete his assignment, Williams attacks defenders on every snap.

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA – OCTOBER 01: Christian McCaffrey #23 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates with Trent Williams #71 of the San Francisco 49ers after running for a touchdown during an NFL football game between the San Francisco 49ers and the Arizona Cardinals at Levi’s Stadium on October 01, 2023 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images)

“He is trying to murder you on just about every play,” Schlereth said. “He is literally trying to shorten your neck and send you off the football field.”

For the 49ers, the formula is fairly straightforward: run the football, control the tempo, let Purdy operate in rhythm and avoid giving Denver opportunities to hang around.

For the Broncos, it starts much earlier. Denver needs to execute from the opening whistle and avoid the mistakes that have consistently put its offense behind the chains.

If both teams play to their strengths, Schlereth expects the details to make the difference in what should be an intriguing matchup between two teams heading in very different directions early in the season.

Listen to The Carmichael Dave Show with Jason Ross from 6 – 10 a.m. PDT, Monday through Friday, on Sactown Sports 1140.

More 49ers content from Sactown Sports

• ESPN’s Nick Wagoner: Brock Purdy is playing at an MVP level
• 49ers star DE Nick Bosa Expected To Miss Multiple Weeks
• Brock Purdy Earns NFC Offensive Player of the Week Honors
• Is Brock Purdy A Top-Tier Quarterback?

Upcoming San Francisco 49ers 2026 Schedule

• Sunday, October 4th – vs. Denver Broncos – 1:25 pm PT
• Sunday, October 11th – @ Seattle Seahawks – 1:25 pm PT
• Monday, October 19th – vs. Washington Commanders – 5:15 pm PT
• Sunday, October 25th – @ Atlanta Falcons – 10:00 am PT

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