Raheem Mostert might be the key to unlocking a 49ers run game that’s was relatively dormant the four weeks prior to Sunday’s loss in Baltimore. While the 49ers fell 20-17, Mostert shined on a dreary East Coast day that was muddied by steady rain throughout the contest.

Mostert ran it a career-high 19 times for a career-high 146 yards and a touchdown. It was his second-consecutive week with a score – the first time in his career he’s had touchdowns in back-to-back games. His 146 rushing yards were the most by a 49er since Carlos Hyde hung up 193 on the Jets in 2016 according to a release from the team.

This may become a trend down the stretch for San Francisco. With Tevin Coleman struggling (49 carries for 122 yards) the last five games, and Matt Breida nursing an ankle injury that’s forced him to miss the last three, Mostert could see more action thanks to his health and relatively fresh legs.

Going into Sunday, Mostert had just 73 carries for the season. He’s up to 92 and he’s been remarkably efficient in those rushes. His 92 attempts have produced a team-best 5.9 yards per carry. He’s up to 6.3 yards per carry in 133 attempts with the 49ers.

With Breida set to return soon, it’s unlikely San Francisco turns to Mostert as a workhorse back. They also need him on special teams where he’s a tremendous asset in coverage.

On the other hand, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him get more work going forward. He’s been terrific at getting to the edge and finding chunks of yards after turning the corner. He showed Sunday he’s capable of doing more than running outside. His touchdown run against the Packers came on an inside handoff as well.

The 49ers thrive offensively thanks to their ability to put a slew of high-quality playmakers on the field. They’re at their best when the run game is running at a high level. Mostert allows them to check both of those boxes, and he may be a much-needed late-season spark for the 49ers offense in the thick of the playoff race.