A Win, In Two Acts SF 49ers vs Arizona Cardinals
San Francisco 49ers 32 Arizona Cardinals 20 In Act One, the 49ers used a combination of running and passing to test their opponent’s defenses. A halftime score of 22-20 would suggest both teams were well matched, but credit must go to the defensive unit – their two interceptions of stray passes from Cardinal quarterback Carson Palmer ensured that San Francisco stayed in the game.
The highlight of the first half: “Artist in Residence” Vernon Davis delighted the crowd with examples of snatching a ball from thin air regardless of where it was thrown. In eight catches he managed to tie his career high of 180 yards before the second half ended.
In Act Two, the Cardinals were presented with a different opponent – a ground-pounding running team. Stalwart Frank Gore rushed for 101 yards – his second 100+ day this season. The Cardinals defense
typically allows only 79 rushing yards per game, but San Francisco managed 99 yards in just the second half. 49er time of possession and costly Cardinal turnovers by their seasoned veterans resulted in the final score.
Featured Performers:
Quarterback Colin Kaepernick threw for 252 yards (in 16 of 29).
Outside Linebacker Corey Lemonier sacked Carson Palmer for a safety.
Kendall Hunter was dashing. Players and fans take note: When this young man gets the ball he puts everything he has into getting as far as he can. He defines the word intensity.
Interceptions by Eric Reid and Carlos Rogers .
Past week superstar Anquan Boldin made his 800th career reception this week. After his week one, 208 yard game, opposing defenses have been wary of him and often use the double team. It is this focus that warps the defensive coverage and frees up the field for his fellow teammates.
Patrick Willis forced Arizona wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald to fumble during a promising drive.
Cardinal quarterback Carson Palmer turned in a respectable performance with 25 of 41 for 298 yards.
And in closing, we must commend 49er CEO Jed York for distancing his organization from the repulsive fan behavior following the injury of Cardinal defensive end Calais Campbell. We wish him a speedy recovery.
