Cowboys vs. 49ers: The good, bad and ugly from San Francisco’s 40-10 loss

The Good

I was half tempted to just leave this page blank. And it would have been a telling metaphor pretty much summing up everything that happened in Week 7.

There are a few positives from San Francisco, though, so let’s focus on those if we can.

San Francisco 49ers

Few 49ers Penalties!

Here’s a stat you’ll need to read twice — the Niners committed just two penalties for 22 yards. Two! This, after heading into Week 7 with a league-leading 56 penalties.

Granted, one of these came against cornerback Rashard Robinson, who has been a major culprit for yellow flags this season. But at least San Francisco apparently cleaned up one of its biggest problems this season.

Let’s hope that trend continues.

Running Back Carlos Hyde

Falling behind early and even more, frequently thereafter, meant the Niners were never quite in a position to get running back Carlos Hyde going. Simply put, San Francisco’s offense had to focus almost solely on the passing game, even more so as the game drew on.

Hyde didn’t make a huge impact, although he did manage to average 4.9 yards a carry on 14 attempts, also adding another 20 yards through the air.

Dwight Clark

It was sad to see former wide receiver Dwight Clark, who was diagnosed with ALS last March, struggling to find the words to thank his former 49ers teammates during halftime.

In case you didn’t know — you should — Clark was on the receiving end of this play that sent the Niners to the Super Bowl over the Cowboys back in 1982. You know, one of the most famous plays in football history.

If only San Francisco could have put forth a more spirited effort on Dwight Clark Day.