SANTA CLARA, CA (Diya TV) – In the first game of the new league year, the San Francisco 49ers came up short 30-9 to the Denver Broncos. San Francisco rested multiple key starters in this game which gave many backups and third-string players the chance to shine. After what was a strong first frame, the Niners gave up a 20 point second quarter which led to their demise.

49ers Start Hot

The best drive of the game was the first one for San Francisco. Backup QB Mac Jones led the 49ers down the field in eight plays, capped off by a five yard touchdown from RB Patrick Taylor Jr. The drive was engineered against the Broncos starting defense, helmed by former 49ers Talanoa Hufanga and Dre Greenlaw. The biggest play of the drive was a picture-perfect throw from Jones to WR Jordan Watkins for a 50-yard gain. With players fighting for roster spots, that moment will be a standout for the young receiver. 

Broncos Capitalize on Turnovers

However, moments that were not so joyous were the three turnovers committed by the 49ers. Jones threw an interception in the first quarter, shortly after the aforementioned scoring drive. The next quarterbacks to enter the game for San Francisco did not fare much better. Rookies Carter Bradley and Tanner Mordecai each threw a pick while recent running back addition Ameer Abdullah committed a fumble.

The Broncos used these mishaps to fuel scoring drives of their own. Despite some struggles early on dealing with DC Robert Saleh’s defense, the backups settled in and took over. QB Jarrett Stidham had a completion percentage of 93% with 136 yards and a pair of touchdowns. 

“I liked how we started, but after that there wasn’t much to be excited about…too many mistakes and it was a frustrating two and a half quarters.” – HC Kyle Shanahan

Up Next

While the 49ers did decide to rest key starters, thus limiting the ceiling on how they would fare in this one, the game offered some insight into the depth of the team and how younger players are developing. Up next is a trip to the Sin City where the Niners will take on the Las Vegas Raiders. This is another opportunity for head coach Kyle Shanahan and his staff to evaluate the talent they have and make adjustments before the regular season starts.