49ers vs. Texans: Grading San Francisco’s efforts
Quarterback
Starting off the game, it was bumpy for Garoppolo. The missing presence of offensive lineman Trent Brown was obvious, as replacement Zane Beadles struggled. Garoppolo made a handful of errant throws, and the offense was struggling to find its footing.
But Garoppolo was able to re-gain control of the ship, and set it on the right course. As the game went along, Garoppolo got better. The connection from last week with wide receiver Marquise Goodwin continued, and Garoppolo built up a new one with tight end Garret Celek.
6 plays, 85 yards, 7 points. @JimmyG_10 gets it to @GCells85 for the TD! #SFvsHOU pic.twitter.com/ESfDqH7xkd
— San Francisco 49ers (@49ers) December 10, 2017
Garoppolo finished 20-33 for a career-high 334 yards with one touchdown and one interception. There were a few more throws that should have been intercepted. Overall though, it was another notable performance from Garoppolo.
Grade: A-
Running back
Despite being nearly matched in carries by back-up running back Matt Breida (14 to 12), Carlos Hyde was far more productive. Hyde had 14 carries for 76 yards and one touchdown, and found ease throughout game versus the Texans’ front-seven. The 5.6 yards per carry is Hyde’s third highest on the season.
Grade: B+
Wide receiver/Tight end
Last week, it became glaring that Goodwin was one of Garoppolo’s favorite targets. That was again on display against Houston, as Goodwin finished with six receptions for 106 yards. Goodwin did have a few drops, but it was still an useful performance.
Fullback Kyle Juszscyk and tight end Garrett Celek also had very good games. Juszscyk had four receptions for 64 yards, while Celek had two receptions for 67 yards and one touchdown.