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| 49ers defensive coordinator Vic Fangio and offensive coordinator Greg Roman are among the best in the NFL. (US Presswire) |
Offense: A
Dominant. Balanced. Historic. The 49ers became the first team in NFL history to rush (311) and pass (310) for more than 300 yards in the same game while setting the new franchise single-game yardage record (621). Coach Jim Harbaugh described QB Alex Smith as “near perfect” after he completed 18 of 24 passes for 303 yards with 3 TDs and no INTs. The team also had a 300-yard passer (Smith), a 100-yard rusher (Frank Gore), and two 100-yard receivers (Michael Crabtree and Vernon Davis 106) for the first time since 1961.
Previous game's grade: B
Defense: A
For the second straight week, the 49ers defense did not allow a touchdown. Through games on Sunday, the 49ers rank No. 1 in the NFL in scoring defense, No. 2 in total defense and No. 3 in yards per play. The Bills ran for just 89 yards and QB Ryan Fitzpatrick completed 16 of 26 passes for 126 yards with an INT. The performance was so good that only LB Patrick Willis (7) needed to make more than four tackles.
Previous game's grade: A
Special Teams: C+
If there were one area the team could have played better it was covering kicks. On the two kickoffs, David Akers did not kick for touchbacks, the Bills got returns of 59 and 28 yards. In the only punt return Leodis McKelvin fielded; he returned it for 28 yards and also had a touchdown called back due to a block in the back.
Previous game's grade: B+
Coaching: A
If there were any doubt OC Greg Roman was a strong candidate to become a head coach in the NFL or at a major FBS school, there shouldn’t be after Sunday’s game. Take it away, Jim Harbaugh: “Yeah, I think that will take care of itself as it goes forward,” Harbaugh said Monday. “We all have just tremendous confidence in Greg. And he is a shining light. He is a real, real superstar. And the same for (DC) Vic Fangio, (assistant head coach/special teams coordinator) Brad Seely.
Previous game's grade: A
Follow 49ers reporter Kyle Bonagura on Twitter @CBS49ers and @KyleBonagura.
