1) The Defense Continues to Shine
In a game featuring bad weather, it was the kind of game that required a lot of patience and a defense that can prevent the opposition from taking control of the game.
The offense didn't do very much in the first half. It didn't matter because the defense stopped Washington when it mattered.
For the third straight week, the defense held its opponent to under 200 yards of total offense and under 7 points. The defense has given up 10 total points over the last three weeks. That is dominance.
It's getting timely sacks and turnovers. This is a defense that can be leaned upon in big spots and that is a key component in competing for a championship one day.
2) Jimmy Garoppolo Just Keeps Winning
Forget what you saw in the first half. Forget the interception. The 49ers won today largely due to Jimmy Garoppolo making enough plays in the second half.
The 49ers had a good game overall on the ground, gaining 137 yards, but there were a number of third down plays that were converted through the air. That is why Jimmy Garoppolo has a 12-2 record as a 49ers quarterback and a 14-2 overall record.
Make no mistake. This was another game that the 49ers probably find a way to lose last year or even the last five years. That is due to the poor overall play by every quarterback the Niners have had since 2014. Jimmy Garoppolo may not have the pretty stats every week, but he does enough to win the game. The stats will come.
3) Nick Bosa Will Be Defensive Rookie of the Year
Nick Bosa just keeps playing well. He finished the day with five tackles, two assists, and four tackles for loss, and the game-ending sack.
He is healthy and is making veterans look bad every week.
4) San Francisco Needs Kyle Nelson to Return
If wondering what is wrong with the kicking game, look no further than the absence of Kyle Nelson, the long snapper.
Don't get me wrong. Robbie Gould isn't without blame, but the issue is more likely the loss of Nelson, due to a suspension that should be over.
If Gould continues to miss when Nelson comes back, then I'll eat my words.
5) Extra Points
- Kendrick Bourne continues to show why the 49ers will likely not trade for another wideout. Bourne is dependable and finished with three catches for 69 yards, including a big 15 yarder that set up a field goal. This group will get better when Trent Taylor returns.
- Julian Taylor had a nice day with a fumble recovery and a tackle for loss on 4th down.
- Matt Breida and Marquise Goodwin left the game with minor injuries, but both returned.
- San Francisco hosts Carolina next week for the first of a stretch of four out of the next five games at home.
