By: Joe Lami

Leading up to the third game of the pre-season, the 49ers traveled to Denver a few days early for joint practices with the Broncos that took place on both Wednesday and Thursday.  They were competitive, but kept calm compared to other joint practices that took place this week that involved fights. Saturday will give the Niners a chance to see how they compare to one of the powerhouses in the AFC.

This week’s matchup marks the 37th time the two teams have faced off against one another in the pre-season. Denver has the 20-16 advantage, and has won the previous two. 

The Broncos are 2-0 on the pre-season, averaging 18 points per game, while averaging nearly 370 yards of total offense per game.  Thus making Saturday’s matchup an interesting one for the 49ers’ defense who completely shut down the Cowboys in week two.  Another solid performance for the 49ers’ defense can help with the confidence of a squad that lost most of its starters last year to retirement or free agency.

However, with the defensive success that San Francisco had in week two, the offense continues to struggle, as they were held without a touchdown and were forced to kick three field goals last week.  The struggles are especially noticeable through the air, as the 49ers are averaging 73 yard passing per game.  While Colin Kaepernick isn’t solely the problem on this, it is something to keep in mind as we inch closer to the regular season.

Kaepernick should see a bit of playing time, as there is a need to begin to create chemistry between him and newly acquired wide receiver, Torrey Smith.  Smith was targeted one time in week two, but the pass was broken up by a great play in the end zone taking away the touchdown.

The only worry about keeping Kaepernick in a game that really doesn’t matter is that the Broncos are leading the NFL in sacks through the first two weeks of pre-season with 12.

Week three marks an important one for those trying to make a place on the squad, as it is the final game before the mandatory cuts the NFL puts in place, as all rosters need to be cut down to 71 by September 1st.  Among the cuts, one of the most probable was un-drafted rookie quarterback, Dylan Thompson, whose been abysmal through two weeks.

Once again, the primary focus will remain on breakout star, Jarryd Hayne.  The first year footballer and former Australian Rugby star is making head waves among the media, although head coach, Jim Tomsula is not all that surprised by his early success.  Many are already tabbing the running back as part of the 53-man roster for his impressive play on special teams, especially on the punt return team.  However, I still believe that Hayne has a lot more to do to make the pro roster.

While he is a dominating player when returning the punt, he needs to work on his blocking.  One play from last week comes to mind, as he missed a block that led to a sack for Dallas.  However, it seems like Hayne is quickly becoming a fan favorite, making it a tough decision for Tomsula and the 49ers staff.