49ers Face Challenge of Protecting Garoppolo Over 3 Games

Jimmy Garoppolo is now the future of the San Francisco 49ers. Since taking over the starting quarterback role, the former Patriots backup has been brilliant in two games, guiding his team to victories over the Bears and Texans.As the team winds down a 3-10 season, the entire 49ers franchise suddenly seems energized and optimistic about the future.But that future won't look so rosy if the 49ers can't protect their young passer. And, with the final three games against the Titans (Sunday), Jaguars on Dec. 24 and Rams on Dec. 31, San Francisco's offensive line certainly will be challenged to do just that – especially with right tackle Trent Brown injured and likely out for possibly all three games.As Cam Inman of the Bay Area News Group noted this week, the Titans defense has 22 sacks in its past three games, the most for a three-game stretch in their franchise history. The next opponent, Jacksonville – which Inman points out has picked up the nickname "Sacksonville" this season – leads the NFL with 47 sacks. The Rams are tied for third in the league with 40 sacks.Keeping Garoppolo safe and sound will be a challenge."It's our chance to prove to ourselves what kind of...