Temperature Checks for the 49ers following their Week 4 Loss
The Jacksonville Jaguars came to town and their defense roughed up a 49ers offense that saw Brock Purdy’s return to action. A 26-21 loss saw plenty of opportunities left on the table.
Hot
Fred Warner
All-Pro Fred had two pass breakups that almost resulted in interceptions and another forced fumble on Sunday, which is the 17th knockout of his career making him the franchise leader. Warner is clearly the heart and soul of this team.
Jake Tonges
Tonges had another solid outing on Sunday with 3 receptions for 58, including a screen pass that he took 23 yards for a touchdown, putting the 49ers within one score late in the game. His usage and production during George Kittle’s absence hopefully will continue to be rewarded this season, even after Kittle’s return.
Ricky Pearsall
Pearsall only had four catches for 46 yards before exiting the game with a knee injury, but he is the safety net so far this season for his quarterbacks. His highlight was a sensational one handed sliding catch on an underthrown pass for a 31 yard gain. His hands are seemingly made of steel this season.
Mild
Upton Stout
Yes, Stout had a costly, albeit highly questionable, pass interference penalty late in the game that overturned what would have been his first career interception, but his coverage is sticky and he is becoming reliable in the nickel spot. He will continue to be fun to watch grow and hopefully will continue to frustrate opposing offenses.
Dee Winters
Winters led the team in tackles on Sunday with ten, but was badly out of position on Travis Etienne’s 48 yard touchdown run. A bad angle allowed Etienne to run free for the score one play after a costly Luke Farrell fumble.
Cold
Brock Purdy
Whether it was rust, or a lingering toe injury, Purdy was not good on Sunday. With two interceptions and a fumble in the team’s final offensive possession, Purdy’s precision was off against the Jaguars. He threw many high passes that sailed and repeatedly put his receivers in harm’s way to go up and get them. The tow seemed to be the issue as he was very statuesque in the pocket and couldn’t drive the ball.
Brant Boyer
When former ST Coordinator Brian Schneider was let go after last season, 49ers fans rejoiced as the immediate thought was that there would be immediate improvement in the third phase of the game. It has seemingly gotten worse, as evidenced by the Parker Washington 87 yard punt return that effectively sealed the win for Jacksonville. Penalties, missed assignments, and poor execution continue to plague the 49ers special teams group.
Post-Bosa Pass Rush
The Nick Bosa effect was in full display as the 49ers did not register a sack and only accounted for five pressures against the Jags. Bryce Huff flashed early on a tackle for loss, but was largely absent for the remainder of the game. Trevor Lawrence was getting the ball out quickly with short passes, but the 49es must find a way to get to the quarterback without their star defensive end.
Kendrick Bourne
Bourne got the majority of reps on Sunday over a returning Demarcus Robinson, but the faithful are questioning why after a poor performance on Sunday. Multiple drops by Bourne continually put the offense in a hole and out of rhythm. With Robinson having another week of practice, Bourne’s opportunities will start to wither away if he continues to struggle hauling in passes.