Can Mike Martz REALLY improve the 49ers offense?
It’s hard to deny that Mike Martz’ NFL offenses have, by and large, been impressive statistically. Particularly the passing attacks. FBG staff member Jeff Tefertiller takes a look at the “Martz Effect” in a pair of articles [note: subscriber only]:
- The Martz Effect, Part I by Jeff Tefertiller
- The Martz Effect, Part II by Jeff Tefertiller
Those articles prompted a discussion in our forums, as member baconisgood questioned whether the 49ers situation is at all comparable to what Martz had to work with in St. Louis and Detroit.
To summarize his counterargument, he points out that the Rams had two Hall of Fame caliber WRs, an MVP running back (remember Faulk was already a proven commodity as a Colt), and a surprise QB who turned out to be among the league’s elite. A debate rages within the forum thread on how much credit Martz deserves for the careers of the Rams stars, and whether the 49ers situation is analogous to what Martz inherited in Detroit two seasons ago.
Where do I stand on this argument? Frankly, I have serious doubts about whether Martz can be successful this year. Not necessarily because he isn’t a talented offensive mind. I genuinely believe Martz can find a QB out of the trio that can run his system. And I believe the offensive skill players (Frank Gore, DeShaun Foster, Vernon Davis, Bryant Johnson, Arnaz Battle, Isaac Bruce) are talented enough collectively to run his system. My doubts stem from Martz’ inability/unwillingness to protect his quarterback.
Here are the sacks allowed tallies for each of Mike Martz’ offenses (defined as a team he was either the OC or head coach for):
- 1999 (Rams OC) — 33 sacks
- 2000 (Rams HC) — 44 sacks
- 2001 (Rams HC) — 40 sacks
- 2002 (Rams HC) — 46 sacks
- 2003 (Rams HC) — 43 sacks
- 2004 (Rams HC) — 50 sacks
- 2005 (Rams HC) — 46 sacks
- 2006 (Lions OC) — 63 sacks
- 2007 (Lions OC) — 54 sacks
Now he’s inheriting an offense that allowed 55 sacks last year WITHOUT playing the spread Martz attack.
I just can’t see how the 49ers keep their QBs from absolutely being demolished all season long. I hope I’m wrong, because that will create some compelling fantasy value options among Rams receivers. But somehow I suspect this is going to be a season when Mike Martz’ star fades even further.
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