San Francisco 49ers: Ranking the 10 Worst Teams in Franchise History

No. 4: The 1978 49ers

Regular-Season Record: 2-14, fourth in the NFC West

We’ve already discussed how then-49ers owner Ed DeBartolo Jr.’s first few years atop the organization weren’t that good. And his selection of Joe Thomas as general manager was a perfect indication of the problems within the franchise.

Thomas’ deal with the Buffalo Bills for O.J. Simpson was proving its effectiveness as the 31-year-old running back was no longer capable of handling the rigors of being an every-down ball-carrier. He led the team in rushing in 1978 but with only 593 yards and one touchdown.

San Francisco managed its first win of the season over the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 5 and wouldn’t see another until a 6-3 uninspiring performance at home over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 15.

During that stretch, quarterback Steve DeBerg tossed just eight touchdowns against 22 interceptions. And the 49ers offense finished the year with a mere 219 points scored — 28th in the league.

If there were any positives from this season, they came after its conclusion. The 49ers fired Thomas after 1978, which helped open the door for head coach Bill Walsh to take over.

Combined with the Walsh selection, the Niners would cash in on a draft class the subsequent year that included players like quarterback Joe Montana and wide receiver Dwight Clark.

Their time would come soon.

Next: No. 3