San Francisco 49ers

Report card: 49ers’ defense could be one of worst ever

By Matt Barrows

mbarrows@sacbee.com

49ers’ Arik Armstead rubs his belly after sacking Bucs quarterback Jameis Winston for a one yard loss in the first quarter on Sunday at Levi Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif.
49ers’ Arik Armstead rubs his belly after sacking Bucs quarterback Jameis Winston for a one yard loss in the first quarter on Sunday at Levi Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif. Jose Luis Villegas jvillegas@sacbee.com

Report card

Offense: Colin Kaepernick and the 49ers’ offense were quick, sharp and efficient on their opening drive. After that? Bumbling, disjointed and mistake prone. The 49ers are seven games into the season and have yet to see even a modicum of consistency on offense.

Grade: D+

Defense: Jacquizz Rodgers became the second straight runner to go over the 100-yard mark by halftime against the 49ers and the sixth straight to gain 100 or more in the contest. The 49ers are flirting with becoming one of the three worst rushing defenses since the league expanded the schedule to 16 games in 1978.

Grade: F+

Special teams: Rookie Aaron Burbridge, who’s been solid as a gunner this season, crashed into teammate and punt returner Jeremy Kerley in the third quarter, causing a fumble that set up a Tampa Bay field goal. Phil Dawson knocked in a 28-yard field goal in the fourth quarter. Grade: D+

Overall: The 49ers have their first six-game losing streak since 2008 when Mike Nolan was fired as the coach and Shaun Hill was the quarterback. One bright spot: They will not lose next week. They have a bye. Grade: D-

Matt Barrows

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