Ep. 224: “This crop of free-agent pass catchers doesn’t excite us.”

Better Rivals Ep. 273: Kwontifying value added in free agency: On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, the free agency frenzy is upon us and whew buddy is there a lot to talk about. Will the 49ers themselves or their opponents feel the Wrath of Kwon?(22:26) Was trading for Dee Ford the right move at edge?(34:00) And, most importantly, are the 49ers valuing the right things in year three of the Lynchahan era?(10:19) All that, plus missing out on OBJ, bringing back Jimmie Ward, and adding yet another running back. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices by The Gold Standard: San Francisco 49ers Podcast Network

76 min listen

Ep. 208: “The elegant tank is on, man.”: On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, it’s another Pythagorean Win Wednesday! The 49ers lost their fourth consecutive game by less than one score and the “elegant tank” is on. (1:09) Where are things breaking down in the run game? (5:23) Which Colts defender caused problems for the offensive line all game? (12:35) And where does Brian Hoyer need to live on early downs to be successful? (21:43) All that, plus the return of our Spotlight Player of the Week (36:05), an addition to the cornerback corps, and what to watch for in Washington (51:30). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices by The Gold Standard: San Francisco 49ers Podcast Network

74 min listen

Ep. 238: “Are you concerned about Garoppolo’s deep ball?”: On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, we have officially ended our holdout and reported to (dis)organized podcasting activities. Will Jimmy Garoppolo ever complete another deep ball? (9:38) How will things shake out with the linebacker corps? (22:04) And how will the 49ers overcome the lack of quality edge rushers to get after the quarterback? (28:20) All that, plus the importance of tackles and centers in Shanahan’s offense (37:49), breakout players (50:00), and more as we open up the mailbag to answer your questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices by The Gold Standard: San Francisco 49ers Podcast Network

76 min listen

Ep. 240: PFF’s Zac Robinson on Garoppolo, the West Coast system, and evaluating QBs: On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, Smart Football Month rolls on as Zac Robinson from Pro Football Focus joins us to discuss all things quarterback. Just how tough is it for a quarterback to pick up the West Coast system? (11:41) What does Jimmy Garoppolo need to do to improve in year two? (21:24) And what should you be looking for when trying to evaluate quarterback play? All that, plus Reuben Foster is suspended, the five most important players for 2018, and cat murder. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices by The Gold Standard: San Francisco 49ers Podcast Network

63 min listen

Ep. 232: “Shanahan prefers guys who can separate.”: On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, we take a look at day-two-or-later draft prospects who’ve caught our eye on offense. Will the 49ers really be looking at big, contested-catch wide receivers or does Kyle Shanahan have a different type? (8:53) In a deep draft class, which running backs stand out as fits in the 49ers offense? (32:30) And which player would give the 49ers a pair of top-end athletes at the tight end position? (50:04). All that, plus what we’re looking for in later-round prospects, the abundance of big wideouts in this draft class, and the general lack of intriguing prospects in this TE class. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices by The Gold Standard: San Francisco 49ers Podcast Network

68 min listen

Ep. 228: “U MAD, BRO?”: On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, it’s a free agency frenzy! Should we expect Richard Sherman to be the same player he was in Seattle? (6:20) Why did the 49ers choose to add a center in free agency rather than a guard? (20:54) And is Jerick McKinnon really worth paying as a top-five running back? (37:30) All that, plus why the 49ers hate everyone you wanted to sign, the value of a pass-catching RB, and whether Lynchahan has a blind spot for players at non-premium positions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices by The Gold Standard: San Francisco 49ers Podcast Network

77 min listen

Ep. 225: “The EDGE cupboard is pretty bare.”: On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, it’s not a good year to be looking for edge rushers in free agency. Will anyone even be available at the top of the market? (11:06) Is Junior Galette’s ability on the field enough to offset his red flags off it? (20:53) And which veteran player could provide the 49ers with a reliable rotational piece? (34:54) All that, plus Mel Kiper is your drunk uncle (0:34), Vontae Davis visits (1:02), and we determine whether we’re in or out on re-signing Aaron Lynch or Tank Carradine (43:34). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices by The Gold Standard: San Francisco 49ers Podcast Network

58 min listen

The Shanaplan: Can the 49ers go on a Warriors-like run?: Kyle Posey and Rob "Stats" Guerrera look at two big topics: First, which year was more flukey: 2019 or 2020? Then, can the 49ers have a period of sustained success like the Warriors are on right now? Which season was the fluke: 2019 or 2020? (:52) Why last year's season changes our view of 2019 and 2020 (7:49) Can the 49ers go on a run like the Warriors? (11:48) How often do teams make 6 of 8 conference title games? (15:30) What would Shanahan's legacy be if the 49ers could pull that off? (16:52) How good would Trey Lance have to be to get to 6 of 8 title games? (19:00) Chris Simms ranks Jimmy Garoppolo as the 20th best QB (23:31) The 49ers have two things you need to dominate a conference for a half-decade (24:53) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices by The Gold Standard: San Francisco 49ers Podcast Network

40 min listen

Ep. 242: Robert Saleh’s pressure packages and their effectiveness: On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, we put a bow on Smart Football Month by taking a look at Robert Saleh’s pressure packages and their effectiveness. How often did the 49ers stunt or blitz last season relative to league average? (18:11) Were they actually effective when they did? (30:47) And how should we expect that to change in the coming season? (44:18) All that, plus takeaways from the Football Outsiders Almanac, Jimmy GQ feature week, and real football is right around the corner. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices by The Gold Standard: San Francisco 49ers Podcast Network

63 min listen

Ep. 227: “It’s starts with signing a cornerback.”: On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, we answer all of your free agency questions. How should Vinny Curry figure into the 49ers’ free agency plans if he becomes available? (5:58) Which positions of need are the most valuable? (22:51) And what does the dream free agency period look like? (50:55) All that, plus which pending 49ers free agent gets signed first (21:00), the value of the combine (30:26), and which 49ers player we’d give the strength of the Black Panther (41:11). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices by The Gold Standard: San Francisco 49ers Podcast Network

72 min listen

Fantasy Championship Heroes and Zeros, Ref Debacles, and CFP Playoff Almost-Collapses by The Ringer Fantasy Football Show

69 min listen

Better Rivals Ep. 275: Drafting upgrades at cornerback: On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, we put the microscope on this draft’s cornerback class. What type of players are the 49ers looking for at the position? (10:18) Who are the best cornerbacks in this class and where do we expect them to come off the board? (23:09) And who are some names to keep an eye on later in the draft if they don’t go corner in round one? (37:04) All that, plus some NFL rule changes, Jimmy watching tape with Mike, and we all need a cheeseburger. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices by The Gold Standard: San Francisco 49ers Podcast Network

60 min listen

Ep. 215: “Jimmy Garoppolo. Overtly Sexual.”: On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, we talk about a quarterback that doesn’t suck! What stood out from Jimmy Garoppolo’s first start as a 49er? (2:38) Where did things break down in the red zone and should we be concerned? (27:55) And which gritty receiving performance was worthy of our Spotlight Player of the Week (hint: he’s a lot like Randy Moss)? (44:03) All that, plus DeForest Buckner’s second straight underwhelming performance (49:03), Robbie is good as Gould (51:36), and what to watch in Houston this week (53:42). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices by The Gold Standard: San Francisco 49ers Podcast Network

76 min listen

Better Rivals Ep. 270: Priority free agent targets on defense: On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, we look to the defensive side of the ball to kick off our free agency preview. In a strong class for edge rushers, who has caught our eye?(11:00) How much would you pay Earl Thomas and are there other quality options if you miss out?(37:35) And is there anyone available to bolster a lackluster 49ers linebacking corps?(48:09) All that, the insanity of franchising kickers, the departure of an All-Name Team legend, and Antonio Brown’s blond mustache. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices by The Gold Standard: San Francisco 49ers Podcast Network

62 min listen

Ep. 237: “Why take another one with a torn ACL in the 4th round?”: On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, we wrap up our coverage of the 2018 NFL draft. Was Kentavius Street worth the risk in the fourth round? (:53) How will D.J. Reed fit in with the current secondary? (16:59) And which late-round player has the best chance of finding the field early? (37:25) All that, plus the importance of athleticism for the current 49ers regime, why the 49ers are basically the hopeless romantics of the NFL, and any lingering concern with the absence of an edge draftee. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices by The Gold Standard: San Francisco 49ers Podcast Network

75 min listen

Ep. 243: Questions that will define the 49ers season: On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, football is right around the corner and it’s season preview time! Will Jimmy Garoppolo be able to sustain his excellent play over a full season? (9:19) Does the pass coverage take a significant step forward? (19:47) Will the 49ers be able to generate more edge pressure this season? (27:56) All that, plus record predictions, superlatives, and a fond farewell. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices by The Gold Standard: San Francisco 49ers Podcast Network

85 min listen

Ep. 211: “Garoppolooza!”: On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, the 49ers have a new franchise quarterback and he’s handsome AF! After a quick recap of the loss in Philly (1:14), we tackle all things Garoppolo (14:54). Was the cost to make this deal worth it? What should we expect with his contract situation? And, most importantly, is he any good? All that, plus Cardinals preview (51:09), Rashard Robinson gets shipped out (57:58), and winless watch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices by The Gold Standard: San Francisco 49ers Podcast Network

71 min listen

Ep. 226: “This is where the 49ers can get better in a hurry.”: On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, we wrap up our free agency preview with an in-depth look at the top guards in this year’s class. Should the 49ers be worried about spending top money on Andrew Norwell or Josh Sitton? (8:09) If the top players prove too rich, which players could John Lynch & Co. target at the mid-level? (33:40) And is Brandon Fusco worth bringing back as a bargain option? (39:11) All that, plus John Lynch throws shade at Ken Norton (0:48), several potential offseason targets go off the market (1:39), and our preferred free agency plan of attack (48:37). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices by The Gold Standard: San Francisco 49ers Podcast Network

72 min listen

Ep. 251: JIMMY NOOOOOOOOOO: On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, it’s the whompiest of Whomp Whomp Wednesdays. Why did the Chiefs offense meet such little resistance from the 49ers defense? (2:25) Were there any bright spots to take away from Sunday’s performance? (17:57) And of course, where do the 49ers go now without Jimmy Garoppolo? (32:48) All that, plus expectations for C.J. Beathard, (43:41) where the Chargers will be looking to attack on offense, and matchups we’ll be focused on in Los Angeles. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices by The Gold Standard: San Francisco 49ers Podcast Network

75 min listen

Ep. 216: “A tide that lifts all boats.”: On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, we’re going streaking! How has Jimmy Garoppolo managed to lift a 49ers offense that still has many flaws? (2:22) What did the Texans do defensively that played into Garoppolo’s hands? (8:42) And did Robert Saleh fail to give Dontae Johnson proper help on DeAndre Hopkins? (20:05) All that, plus Marquise Goodwin in the spotlight (36:19), Reuben Foster continuing to be ridiculous (40:47), and what to watch as the 49ers go for three straight against the Titans (50:09). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices by The Gold Standard: San Francisco 49ers Podcast Network

74 min listen

Better Rivals Ep. 272: The optimal 49ers free agent plan: On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, free agency is nearly upon us and it’s time to lay out our preferred plan of attack. Which player options should the 49ers pick up?(9:34) Are we in or out on some recent additions to the free-agent market?(17:10) And most importantly, which positions should the 49ers be focused on when the dollars start flying next week?(26:57) All that, plus one offseason signing is already in the books, quick combine thoughts, and we hope your birthday is boomin’. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices by The Gold Standard: San Francisco 49ers Podcast Network

70 min listen

Scheme Month: Shanahan's Run Game: On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, Scheme Month comes to a close with a look at Shanahan’s run game. What really drove the success of the 49ers’ run game last season? How can the 49ers adjust their base outside zone scheme to account for any potential defense they might face? And what was different about their run game in 2019? All that, plus George Kittle’s new contract, why the lack of depth at center is concerning, and John Lynch’s margaritas. by Better Rivals: A San Francisco 49ers Podcast

62 min listen

Oh Hey There! Why the 49ers are the most stable team in the NFC West by The Gold Standard: San Francisco 49ers Podcast Network

42 min listen

Ep. 186: Free agency wrap-up, valuation vs. evaluation: On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, we put a bow on the 2017 free agency period for the 49ers. How does Jeremy Zuttah improve the offensive line? Is Aldrick Robinson the same player as Marquise Goodwin? Can Matt Barkley be relied on as a backup? And why is it important to consider more than just a player’s talent when analyzing player acquisitions? All that, plus positional scarcity, kicker jokes, and lessons from The Scouting Academy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices by The Gold Standard: San Francisco 49ers Podcast Network

96 min listen

Better Rivals Ep. 310: Clinch by an Inch: On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, we recap yet another nail-biting victory for the 49ers as they clinched the NFC West crown and top seed in the playoffs. Who fueled the offensive performance the 49ers need to come away with the win? What changed defensively from the first matchup with Seattle? And what were the key moments in that fateful final drive that allowed San Francisco to pull it out? All that, plus George Kittle’s historic season, a quick glimpse at a season-long change on defense, and early thoughts on playoff scenarios. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices by The Gold Standard: San Francisco 49ers Podcast Network

55 min listen

The Shanaplan: A potential snag in the Jimmy Garoppolo trade talks emerges: Kyle Posey and Akash Anavarathan did a live episode of the show to react to John Lynch's comments from the NFL Scouting Combine. Has the injury news affected Jimmy Garoppolo's trade value? (2:15) One potential snag in the trade talks for Jimmy (7:49) What is the status of Mike McGlinchey's rehab (14:34) How many needs do the 49ers have on the offensive line? (16:38) Will we get any news this week beyond Jimmy Garoppolo (20:42) What restructures will we see this offseason? (26:13) Who is your dream free agent for the 49ers? (29:09) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices by The Gold Standard: San Francisco 49ers Podcast Network

41 min listen

Ep. 231: “They have no one who can do what Harold Landry does.”: On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, premium-position players who could be available for the 49ers at No. 9 overall enter the spotlight. Does it make sense for the 49ers to target interior coverage defenders like Minkah Fitzpatrick or Derwin James given the current makeup of the roster? (6:54) Do either of the top cornerbacks in this draft class project as a scheme fit in San Francisco’s defense? (26:26) And which edge rusher should be at the top of the 49ers’ wish list come draft day? (46:09) All that, plus math jokes, why offense is unlikely to be a consideration at No. 9 overall, and our rankings for San Francisco’s first-round options. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices by The Gold Standard: San Francisco 49ers Podcast Network

78 min listen

Ep. 199: Training camp mailbag!: On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, we open up the mailbag to answer all of your training camp questions. What’s happening with the running back battle? How concerned should you be about the injuries in the secondary? How many wins would it take for the 49ers to commit to Brian Hoyer long term? And which players are primed for their peak season? All that, plus the end of the Bruce Ellington era, projections from the Football Outsiders Almanac, and which player we’d take on in an Oklahoma drill. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices by The Gold Standard: San Francisco 49ers Podcast Network

72 min listen

Ep. 193: Mailbag! 49ers’ RB situation, DL fits, breakout players, and more: On this week’s episode of the Better Rivals podcast, it’s mailbag time! What do we make of the 49ers’ running back situation? How do the pieces fit together along the defensive line? Who wins the slot receiver battle? And who are some potential breakout players to watch? All that, plus a lightning round, Space Jam, and our NFL positions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices by The Gold Standard: San Francisco 49ers Podcast Network

79 min listen

Stats & Eggs, 12/7: 49ers' playoff chances improve after Sunday's games: In this episode, we break down exactly what the 49ers needed happen on Sunday, and where they stand in the NFC playoff picture. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices by The Gold Standard: San Francisco 49ers Podcast Network

10 min listen

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Ep. 224: “This crop of free-agent pass catchers doesn’t excite us.”

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