49ers: Week 7 San Francisco grades and analysis versus Cowboys

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SANTA CLARA, CA – OCTOBER 22: Ezekiel Elliott #21 of the Dallas Cowboys is pushed out of bounds by Jimmie Ward #25 of the San Francisco 49ers during their NFL game at Levi’s Stadium on October 22, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

Defensive Grades

San Francisco 49ers /

San Francisco 49ers

The Niners defense didn’t get much help from their offense over the first half, eventually giving up 234 first-half yards to the Cowboys offense. And Dallas finished with 501 total yards, including six touchdowns through the air and on the ground combined.

Tackling was another issue — something that’s plagued San Francisco for much of the season.

But overall, we saw the Niners completely outclassed on this side of the ball, hurting themselves along the way.

Defensive Line

Rookie defensive end Solomon Thomas didn’t back up his impressive efforts from Week 6, often overpursuing on play-action passes and read-option plays. These are rookie mistakes, although it’s safe to say Thomas has a lot of learning to do.

The Niners were also hurting from defensive end Arik Armstead’s (hand) absence, as there was little pass rush off the edge.

And San Francisco’s run-stopping efforts? Well, Dallas accounted for 265 yards on 43 carries for three touchdowns.

Not the best day.

Grade: F

Linebacker

Reuben Foster’s presence made a difference, especially a huge hit on Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott:

Foster ended up suffering a couple of injuries during the game, though, and it might be best to simply preserve him for 2018 at this point.

Did anyone else at this position make a difference for the Niners? No. Zero sacks on Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott and just one quarterback hit.

Grade: D-

Secondary

Cornerback Rashard Robinson committed his weekly pass-interference penalty and was frequently victimized by Cowboys receivers and running backs.

Just watch as Robinson isn’t able to disengage and tackle Elliott on this 72-yard touchdown play:

3 quarters, 3 TDs for Zeke -- including this 72-yarder 💪 #DALvsSF pic.twitter.com/PYYVppMR1d
— FOX Sports (@FOXSports) October 22, 2017

Robinson isn’t cut out to be a No. 1 cornerback. The problem is San Francisco simply isn’t equipped with any other on-roster options. Fellow corner Dontae Johnson had his issues, and nickel corner K’Waun Williams suffered an injury midway through the game.

Not a good day from this unit at all.