49ers grades vs. Raiders: San Francisco’s first complete game of 2018

Defensive Grades

Defensive Line

The 49ers’ defensive front had their best game of the season, as they were particularly disruptive in the passing game, with five defensive linemen recording at least one sack. Edge rusher Cassius Marsh had a career day with 2.5 sacks and numerous taekwondo celebrations, and fellow EDGE Dekoda Watson added 1.5 sacks in his first game back from injured reserve. The Raiders were able to move the ball a bit on the ground, but their rushing game provided little value once the 49ers opened the game up in the second half.

Grade: A-

Linebackers

The 49ers’ linebacking corps didn’t miss a beat with WILL linebacker Reuben Foster sidelined. Rookie MIKE linebacker Fred Warner had one of his better games as a pro, and led all players with seven solo tackles, while SAM linebacker Mark Nzeocha added a tackle for loss. The Niners had a bit of trouble with running back Jalen Richard, who amassed 45 receiving yards through the air, but the RB did little on the ground. With San Francisco’s defensive line doing most of the work, the linebackers had little to clean up, and made the tackles they’ve missed in recent weeks.

Grade: B+

Secondary

The 49ers played Thursday’s game without their two starting safeties, but it was difficult to tell. Safety Tyvis Powell rebounded with a strong performance, and cornerback Richard Sherman was his normal shutdown self, despite continuing to play through injury. While the 49ers’ defensive line played a significant role by limiting Carr’s time to throw, San Francisco’s secondary had a great day, as no Raiders receiver recorded more than three receptions or 29 total receiving yards.

Grade: B+