Steve Young: 49ers need to get creative to improve red zone efficiency

Hall of Fame quarterback and San Francisco 49ers legend Steve Young joined the "Dan Patrick Show" on Monday to discuss his former team's loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. Young attended the game on Sunday and witnessed firsthand the 49ers' underwhelming performance.

While he didn't find either team particularly impressive, Young noted that Andy Reid, Patrick Mahomes, and the Chiefs' offense continue to overcome adversity and find ways to make things happen in the red zone. In this area, the 49ers have struggled this season.

"We threw interception down there in the second half," Young said of the 49ers. "We didn't get down there very much."

The 49ers, now 3-4 and no longer leading the NFC West, must quickly improve their red zone execution if they hope to revive their postseason hopes.

"The 49ers have got to figure out a way to turn the page," Young said. "Brandon Aiyuk looks like he's out for the season. We've got to figure out ways to put it in the end zone. We have not."

Aiyuk is feared to have suffered a torn ACL in the first half, likely ending his season. The injury, combined with Jauan Jennings' absence due to a hip injury and Deebo Samuel being limited by illness, left the team depleted at wide receiver against the Chiefs.

Even with their receiving corps at full strength, the 49ers' red zone efficiency has been disappointing this season.

Young added, "Last year, we were number one by far in red zone. In the NFL today, you can't be the guy that's just going to go retail, and just call the play in the huddle, and expect you're going to put it in the end zone. You're going to have to come up with crazy stuff to put it in. And we've got to get better at that."