Buccaneers vs. 49ers: The Good, Bad and Ugly from San Francisco’s 34-17 Week 7 Loss
By Peter Panacy
The Bad
Where does one start?
San Francisco managed to go 6-of-15 on third downs, but the majority of conversions took place in the first half. This points the finger at the 49ers’ second-half offensive adjustments.
Every week, it seems as if the Niners are ready to open up with a couple of promising drives to start the game. Thereafter, any sort of offensive rhythm just disappears.
The 49ers’ 10 total points scored in the third quarter of games this year is all the evidence one needs to understand this. San Francisco managed zero points between the second and third quarters.
Colin Kaepernick’s decent start fell flat quickly as well. He finished the day 16-of-34 for just 143 yards and a touchdown against one interception. His net passer rating was a lowly 56.4, and one has to wonder if he’s a significant upgrade over now-benched quarterback Blaine Gabbert.
But he didn’t get much help from his receivers either.
Running back Shaun Draughn led all receivers with five receptions for just 37 yards. The next leading receiver? Wideout Quinton Patton with three grabs for only 13 yards.
And so much for getting wide receiver Torrey Smith involved. He had only one reception for 17 yards.
San Francisco also turned the ball over three times. For a team incapable of maintaining any offensive or defensive consistency, turnovers will remain a killer.
Especially when wide receiver Aaron Burbridge made a costly fumble on a punt return.