Chargers vs. 49ers: Preseason Week 4 grades and analysis

Offensive Grades

Quarterback

After Beathard’s three-and-out, third-string quarterback Nick Mullens played for the next six drives, and led the team into the red zone twice, while two of his drives were shortened by turnovers. Heneghan was the best of the three QBs, scoring touchdowns on each of his two drives.

Grade: C

Running Back

After breaking out last week, newcomer running back Alfred Morris ran the ball twice for five yards on the 49ers’ opening drive. San Francisco’s next three backs were no better, finishing the day with 52 yards on 22 rushing attempts. RB Raheem Mostert and fullback Malcom Johnson each added 13 yards through the air.

Grade: D+

Wide Receiver / Tight End

Wide receiver Richie James was nearly the entire 49ers passing attack, as the rookie logged seven receptions for 80 yards. Tight end Ross Dwelley was easily the best of the tight ends after finishing the day with three catches for 39 yards, and executing well in the run game. Fellow tight end Cole Hikutini may have played himself out of a roster spot when he dropped a pass over the middle after “hearing footsteps” and then missed a key block that caused a fumble. Without James and Dwelley, this group would have earned a failing grade.

Grade: C-

Offensive Line

Today was another down day for the Niners’ offensive line, but many of today’s offensive lineman were camp bodies who will be looking for new employment by the end of the weekend.

Grade: C