The San Francisco 49ers are absolutely flying, kicking off the 2026 season with a red-hot 3-0 record after rolling over the Rams, Dolphins, and Cardinals. Everyone expected Brock Purdy and those skill position guys to be good, but what’s *really* making waves is how their offensive line has been straight-up locking down. This unit isn’t just “good,” it’s been performing at an elite level, and honestly, the rest of the league needs to take notice.
Brock’s Got Bodyguards, The NFL’s Top Line
Seriously, this O-line? They’re on another planet right now. They’ve played so well in pass protection that the Niners are ranked first in the entire NFL, according to Ben Baldwin’s formula, which factors in PFF grades, blown block percentage, and pass-block win rate. Think about that for a second: number one in the league! They’re leading the NFL in PFF grades and their blown block percentage through three weeks is insane. And here’s the kicker, the absolute jaw-dropper: they haven’t given up a single sack all season. None!
Offensive coordinator Klay Kubiak is hyped, telling everyone, “They’ve been really good.” He admitted they knew four out of five starters, but the guard competition solidified things, and whoever they picked was “the right guy.” Kubiak gives props to the whole offense for that no-sack stat, mentioning the tight ends, backs, Brock, and receivers all playing a part. He even said there’s been “a little bit of luck involved” and that Brock’s made “great plays of making people miss.” But let’s be real, a big chunk of that credit goes to the big boys up front. They’ve done a heck of a job making sure their MVP-candidate quarterback stays clean, and that’s letting Purdy play mistake-free football.
Run Game’s Roar, Purdy’s Prowess
It’s not just about protecting the passer either. The entire offense is humming, ranking first in the NFL in EPA per play by a mile. Brock Purdy looks like an MVP candidate out there, and the passing game has been strong from day one. But what’s even better is seeing the run game get built out. After struggling a bit last season, they’re bringing that efficiency back.
They’re averaging a solid 5.1 yards per carry as a team, with Christian McCaffrey churning out 4.7 yards per carry on his 35 attempts. Kaelon Black is also getting in on the action. Kubiak pointed out that they’ve been “really efficient running the ball, staying out of long passing situations, second and long, third and long.” He even felt like they really got it going in the second half of one game, showing they can turn it on when it matters. When you can run efficiently on first down, it just opens up everything else.
So far, so good for this 49ers team, and with their offensive line playing at this level, giving Purdy all the time in the world, they’re going to be a tough out for anyone. Let’s see if they can keep that momentum going!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Niners Nation.
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