Strategy corner
Decision: The 49ers attacked the left side of the Dolphins' offensive line, specifically Folau.
Reason: The word around the NFL for weeks has been that Folau needs help in pass protection, with the Dolphins generally assigning the running back to help block the left side during passing downs. Also, the left side has suffered since Mark Dixon suffered a season-ending injury Nov. 25 at Buffalo, costing the Dolphins their most athletic lineman and a player who could help cover up for linemates' mistakes.
Result: As the game wore on, the Dolphins had less and less ability to run their standard passing attack. What made the situation worse was the Dolphins didn't run their usual assortment of play-action bootlegs and screens that help keep the pass rush off Fiedler. That, combined with the 49ers' strategy, cost the Dolphins dearly.
