San Francisco 49ers vs. Baltimore Ravens: 5 Halftime Adjustments 49ers Must Make

The San Francisco 49ers find themselves on the wrong side of a 6-3 game but are far from out of this game.

The Niners have had some troubles protecting the quarterback so far, but they've played very well on defense, outside of a big pass interference call. Jim Harbaugh has to make a few changes during halftime if San Fran is going to win this game.

Look for Harbaugh to make a few key adjustments to his game plan and have his team come out in the third quarter ready to take this victory away from his older brother.

1. Pound the Rock

I'm not saying Alex Smith can't throw, but the 49ers are much better when they're able to run the ball effectively.

Jim Harbaugh called three straight passing plays on their first drive, and that ended in a punt. Their next drive resulted in a field goal. The difference? The Niners ran the ball on five of eight plays.

2. Stop Haloti Ngata

The Ravens' pass rush is getting to Alex Smith on almost every play. Frank Gore is one of the best blockers in the backfield, and they might have to have him stay in on more plays to try to slow down Ngata before this turns into a bloodbath.

3. Get the Ball to Vernon Davis

The Niners don't have the deep threat the Ravens do in Torrey Smith, but they do have Vernon Davis. Davis isn't a field-stretcher, but he is excellent at picking up yards after the catch. Alex Smith needs to get the ball to Davis in space to try to open up this defense.

4. Slow the Ravens' Intermediate Passing Attack

Baltimore has yet to hit a pass deep (outside of a big pass interference play), but they've been working the middle of the field with Anquan Boldin all night.

The 49ers need to extend their great coverage to that portion of the field if they plan to win this game. They can't leave Boldin open too often, or he'll gash them with first downs that should be three-and-outs.

5. Protect the Ball

This game could easily come down to the last play. Both teams have solid offenses and great defenses. It's looking like the first team to turn the ball over is going to lose this game. The Niners must protect the ball and keep the Ravens offense off the ball.