The  San Francisco 49ers have been stumped this offseason with a number of big losses on the roster. After 10 record breaking years for the Niners, running back Frank Gore left in free agency, signing a contract with the Indianapolis Colts. Hyde exceeded expectations, amounting 182 total yards and two touchdowns in a 20-3 victory vs the Minnesota Vikings. The No. 57 overall pick by the 49ers in 2014 had a game to remember in his debut as the starting running back, thus proving that he could more than fill Frank Gore’s shoes.

Standing six feet tall and weighing 235 pounds, Hyde’s outside zone stretch running could be a huge factor in the 49ers’ bounceback from a disappointing 8-8 season. The Ohio State alumnus demonstrates exceptional footwork and vision in the backfield, making him a multidimensional threat for opposing defenses. In addition, his big frame makes him difficult to tackle and is ideal for pass blocking in third down situations. Hyde is a threat every time he gets the ball, averaging 6.5 yards per carry.

Although the 49ers’ offensive line has had its fair share of departures, such as lineman Mike Iupati and Anthony Davis, Hyde’s patience when running allows him to stay behind the blockers for long enough to find a hole and make plays. Hyde’s patience exemplifies his excellent running instincts, which includes shifting the ball from arm to arm when turning and falling forward when being tackled, allowing him to gain extra yards. His power running causes many defenders to miss tackles, and as a result, according to Pro Football Focus’ Matt Claassen, he finished second only to Marshawn “Beast Mode” Lynch last year in broken tackles per rush. Niners quarterback Colin Kaepernick also looks to bounce back after a disappointing 2014 season and will surely benefit from Hyde’s presence.

As Hyde asserts himself as one of the NFL’s more dominant backs, he will surely help the 49ers prove themselves once again as one of the NFL’s best.  In a defensive driven division like the NFC West, a power back is an integral component for success. Hyde and the 49ers will look to strike gold once again in the playoffs as they did so frequently in years past with a strong running game and a tenacious defense.

Photo Citation:

Bahr, Brian. Seattle Seahawks v San Francisco 49ers. Digital image.Gettyimages. Gettyimages, n.d. Web. 30 Sept. 15. <http://cache4.asset-cache.net/gc/459667972-richard-sherman-of-the-seattle-seahawks-gettyimages.jpg?v=1&c=IWSAsset&k=2&d=GkZZ8bf5zL1ZiijUmxa7QXt8wHPHH7EGcHmkFZMo8JAV%2fv41jTq1ExnqhWDHkYkYauCF46RjOGRKitsADp%2bCOQ%3d%3d>.