Pats Cast Episode 10: Patriots Prepare for Shanahan, Garoppolo and the 49ers

Tomorrow's game marks the return of Jimmy Garoppolo to Gillette Stadium. (Robin Alam/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

The Patriots have lost back-to-back games, but they're finally approaching having a full strength roster.

The 49ers are in somewhat the opposite position. Despite a slew of injuries to key contributors, they sit at 3-3, and they're a tough team to prepare for.

I don't claim to have the perfect game plan, but here's a starting point.

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1. Stop the running game

The 49ers are among the more run-heavy teams in the league, and almost all of it falls into the "outside zone" category.

Even with starter Raheem Mostert sidelined, you'll still see plenty of carries from Jerick McKinnon, Jeff Wilson Jr. and JaMycal Hasty. They'll also find ways to get this trio the ball in the passing game, and they'll even use receivers as ball carriers at times.

There's a chance that the Patriots will deploy a 4-3 tilt alignment on defense, similar to their approach in Super Bowl 53 against the Rams, and much like what the Brian Flores and the Dolphins used against the 49ers two weeks ago.

2. Expect plenty of play action

Again, this is something they utilize about as much as anyone else in football. They like to use their strong running game to their advantage and simplify the game for Jimmy Garoppolo.

They have plenty of playmakers that are tough to tackle. If they can catch you off-guard in the passing game, they'll make tacklers miss in the open field. They do so at a very high frequency, so eye discipline will be crucial for the Patriots defense.

3. Don't ignore the tight end

This might be obvious – since the tight end is George Kittle – but it's easy to forget about him with all the other window dressing the 49ers will throw at the defense. He has great hands, above average speed for his position, and he's a nightmare to tackle.

Kittle is also a great blocker, so while it's important to keep an eye on him at all times, don't assume that him being in the game means they're throwing the ball. And don't assume that other tight ends can't make an impact either, because one of the staples of the Shanahan system is maximizing multiple players at the position.

For an injury-hampered .500 team, the 49ers are tough to beat, especially with the resurgence of cornerback Jason Verrett. There will be adjustments made by Belichick throughout the game, but having a strong plan of attack from the opening kickoff would go a long way.

The game will start at 4:25 p.m. on Sunday from Foxboro on CBS. Jim Nantz and Tony Romo will be on the call, which will provide an insightful angle to the uniqueness of the 49ers that I've discussed.

If the Patriots want to stay alive in the playoff chase, this is a borderline must-win game.