2007 San Francisco 49ers season
Encyclopedia
Game summary
Coming off a fierce divisional road win over the Rams, the 49ers flew to Heinz Field
for an interconference duel with the Pittsburgh Steelers
. In the first quarter, the Niners struck first with kicker Joe Nedney
getting a 32-yard field goal. The Steelers would immediately respond with CB–PR Allen Rossum
returning a punt 98 yards for a touchdown. San Francisco wrapped up the period with Nedney kicking a 22-yard field goal. In the second quarter, Pittsburgh increased its lead with QB Ben Roethlisberger
completing a 9-yard TD pass to TE Jerame Tuman
for the only score of the period.
In the third quarter, the Steelers increased its lead with kicker Jeff Reed nailing a 36-yard field goal. The Niners would reply with Nedney kicking a 49-yard field goal. In the fourth quarter, Pittsburgh took control with Reed getting a 49-yard and a 35-yard field goal, while CB Bryant McFadden
returned an interception 50 yards for a touchdown. San Francisco got a touchdown as QB Alex Smith
completed a 21-yard pass to WR Taylor Jacobs
. Afterwards, the Steelers ended the game with RB Najeh Davenport
getting a 39-yard TD run.
With the loss, the 49ers fell to 2–1.
Scoring summary
Q1 - SF - 9:24 - Joe Nedney
32-yard FG (SF 3-0)
Q1 - PIT - 9:12 - Allen Rossum
98-yard kickoff return (PIT 7-3)
Q1 - SF - 3:01 - Joe Nedney 22-yard FG (PIT 7-6)
Q2 - PIT - 0:37 - Jerame Tuman
9-yard pass from Ben Roethlisberger
(Jeff Reed kick) (PIT 14-6)
Q3 - PIT - 9:41 - Jeff Reed 36-yard FG (PIT 17-6)
Q3 - SF - 4:46 - Joe Nedney 49-yard FG (PIT 17-9)
Q4 - PIT - 14:55 - Jeff Reed 49-yard FG (PIT 20-9)
Q4 - PIT - 4:59 - Jeff Reed 35-yard FG (PIT 23-9)
Q4 - PIT - 4:01 - Bryant McFadden
50-yard interception return (Reed kick) (PIT 30-9)
Q4 - SF - 2:22 - Taylor Jacobs
21-yard pass from Alex Smith
(Nedney kick) (PIT 30-16)
Q4 - PIT - 1:51 - Najeh Davenport
39-yard run (Nedney kick) (PIT 37–16)
. In the first quarter, even though there were no points at all, the Niners lost QB Alex Smith
with a separated shoulder during a sack. Back-up QB Trent Dilfer
would take the position for the rest of the game. In the second quarter, San Francisco's recent woes continued with Seahawks kicker Josh Brown getting a 23-yard field goal. Afterwards, Seattle began to pound away with QB Matt Hasselbeck
completing a 17-yard TD pass to WR Bobby Engram
, along with Brown kicking a 31-yard field goal.
In the third quarter, the Seahawks continued their domination as Hasselbeck completed a 14-yard TD pass to TE Marcus Pollard
. The Niners would get their only score of the game as kicker Joe Nedney
got a 43-yard field goal. In the fourth quarter, Seattle sealed San Francisco's doom with Brown nailing a 25-yard field goal.
With their second-straight loss, the 49ers fell to 2-2.
. With QB Alex Smith
out with a shoulder injury, back-up Trent Dilfer
was given the start against the team to which he helped deliver a Super Bowl title.
After a scoreless first quarter, the Ravens got the lead with kicker Matt Stover
getting a 26-yard and a 32-yard field goal. In the third quarter, Baltimore increased its lead with Stover nailing a 49-yard field goal. The Niners came close to taking the lead with Dilfer complting a 49-yard TD pass to WR Arnaz Battle
. With two minutes left in the fourth quarter, the 49ers had a chance to take the lead, but kicker Joe Nedney
missed a 52-yard field goal and the Ravens ran out the clock.
With their third straight loss, the 49ers entered their bye week at 2-3.
for a Week 7 brawl with the New York Giants
. With QB Alex Smith
still recovering from a shoulder injury, back-up Trent Dilfer
once again got the start. In the first quarter, the Niners trailed early as Giants QB Eli Manning
hooked up with WR Amani Toomer
on a 4-yard TD pass (with a missed PAT) for the only score of the period. In the second quarter, San Francisco took the lead with Dilfer completing a 17-yard TD pass to WR Arnaz Battle
. However, New York responded with RB Brandon Jacobs
getting a 5-yard TD run, while kicker Lawrence Tynes
nailed field goals of 29 and 39 yards.
In the third quarter, things got worse for the Niners as Giants DE Osi Umenyiora
sacked Dilfer, causing a fumble, picked up the loose ball, and ran 75 yards for a touchdown. San Francisco would manage to get a safety as FB Moran Norris
blocked a punt, which went out of bounds in the endzone. In the fourth quarter, New York sealed its win with Manning completing a 2-yard TD pass to TE Jeremy Shockey
. The Niners ended its day with Dilfer completing a 1-yard TD pass to WR Darrell Jackson
(with a failed 2-point conversion).
With its fourth-straight loss, the 49ers fell to 2-4.
. QB Alex Smith
(who was recovering from a separate right shoulder since Week 4) was healthy enough to get the start.
In the first quarter, San Francisco trailed early as Saints QB Drew Brees
completed a 17-yard TD pass to WR Marques Colston
, while kicker Olindo Mare
nailed a 26-yard field goal. In the second quarter, the Niners struggles continued as Brees completed a 2-yard TD pass to WR Terrance Copper
, along with completing a 3-yard TD pass to Colston. In the third quarter, San Francisco managed to get on the board with kicker Joe Nedney
getting a 29-yard field goal for the only score of the period. In the fourth quarter, New Orleans wrapped up the win with Brees and Colston hooking up with each other again on a 15-yard TD pass. The Niners' only response was Smith completing a 7-yard TD pass to TE Vernon Davis
.
With their fifth-straight loss, the 49ers dropped to 2-5.
for a Week 9 intraconference duel with the Atlanta Falcons
. In the first quarter, the Niners struck first as RB Maurice Hicks
got a 9-yard TD run. However, the Falcons answered with RB Warrick Dunn
getting a 9-yard TD run. In the second quarter, San Francisco fell behind as Atlanta RB Ovie Mughelli
got a 1-yard TD run for the only score of the period.
In the third quarter, the 49ers crept close as kicker Joe Nedney
got a 49-yard and a 32-yard field goal. However, in the fourth quarter, the Falcons replied with kicker Morten Andersen
getting a 33-yard field goal. Nedney and the Niners tried to close the gap as Nedney kicked a 22-yard field goal. Unfortunately, Andersen's 27-yard field goal helped seal Atlanta's win.
With their sixth-straight loss, the 49ers dropped to 2-6.
for an NFC West rematch on Monday Night Football with the Seattle Seahawks
. In the first quarter, the Niners trailed early as Seahawks QB Matt Hasselbeck
completed a 1-yard TD pass to TE Will Heller
, along with kicker Josh Brown. In the second quarter, San Francisco's struggles continued as RB Maurice Morris
gave Seattle a 6-yard TD run for the only score of the period. After a scoreless third quarter, the Seahawks sealed the win and the season-sweep with Hasselbeck completing a 10-yard TD pass to WR D.J. Hackett
.
With their seventh-straight loss, the 49ers fell to 2-7.
. In the first quarter, the Niners' struggles continued as Rams QB Marc Bulger
completed a 3-yard TD reception to WR Torry Holt
. San Francisco managed to respond with kicker Joe Nedney
28-yard field goal. In the second quarter, St. Louis increased its lead with kicker Jeff Wilkins
getting a 49-yard field goal for the only score of the period.
After a scoreless third quarter, the Rams sealed the win with Wilkins kicking a 35-yard field goal. The Niners tried to mount a comeback as Nedney nailed a 38-yard and a 46-yard field goal. However, on four-straight plays deep in St. Louis territory, four shots to the endzone resulted in 3 incompletions and an interception.
With their eighth-straight loss, the 49ers dropped to 2-8.
for a Week 12 NFC West rematch with the Arizona Cardinals
. In the first quarter, the Niners trailed early as Cardinals QB Kurt Warner
completed a 28-yard TD pass to WR Larry Fitzgerald
. San Francisco responded with QB Trent Dilfer
completed a 2-yard TD pass to TE Vernon Davis
. In the second quarter, the 49ers took the lead with kicker Joe Nedney
getting a 19-yard field goal & RB Frank Gore
getting an 11-yard TD run. However, Arizona regained the lead with RB Marcel Shipp
getting a 1-yard TD run & Warner hooking up with Fitzgerald again on a 48-yard TD pass.
In the third quarter, the Niners retook the lead as Dilfer completed a 57-yard TD pass to WR Arnaz Battle
for the only score of the period. In the fourth quarter, it was back-and-forth as Cardinals QB Tim Rattay
(a former 49er) completed a 2-yard TD pass to TE Ben Patrick
, while Gore managed to get a 35-yard TD run. Afterwards, Arizona ended regulation with kicker Neil Rackers
getting a 19-yard TD field goal. In overtime, the ball went back and forth between the Cardinals and the 49ers. When the Cardinals had the ball, Kurt Warner
threw the ball to WR Sean Morey who appeared to have a sure touchdown, but was run down by 49ers rookie linebacker
Patrick Willis
. Kicker Neil Rackers
missed a field goal, and the 49ers got the ball back. After a three and out, punter Andy Lee
pinned the Cardinals close to their own endzone. San Francisco lifted their demons with stripping Warner in his endzone and LB Tully Banta-Cain
landed on it for the touchdown and the win.
With the win, not only did the 49ers improve to 3-8, it also snapped their dreaded eight-game losing streak. It also gave them a season-sweep over the Cardinals. It would also improve their overtime record under head coach Mike Nolan
to 3-0. With the victory, the 49ers improved to 2-0 against the Cardinals and 1-8 against everyone else this season.
for a Week 13 intraconference game with the Carolina Panthers
. In the first quarter, the Niners trailed early as Panthers kicker John Kasay
nailing a 19-yard field goal for the only score of the period. In the second quarter, San Francisco continued to struggle as Carolina QB Vinny Testaverde
completed a 5-yard to TE Dante Rosario
, along with CB Richard Marshall returning an interception 67 yards for a touchdown.
In the third quarter, the Niners managed to get on the board with QB Trent Dilfer
completing a 20-yard TD pass to WR Arnaz Battle
and 21-yard TD pass to TE Delanie Walker
. Afterwards, the Panthers replied with RB DeShaun Foster
getting a 1-yard TD run. In the fourth quarter, Carolina sealed the win with Testaverde completing a 1-yard TD pass to TE Jeff King
.
With the loss, not only did the 49ers drop to 3-9, it guaranteed them their fifth consecutive losing season since San Francisco's last playoff appearance in 2002.
. In the first quarter, the Niners trailed early as Vikings DT Kevin Williams returned an interception 18 yards for a touchdown, while kicker Ryan Longwell
managed to get a 48-yard field goal. In the second quarter, Minnesota sealed the win early as QB Tarvaris Jackson
completed a 19-yard TD pass to WR Robert Ferguson, Longwell nailing a 46-yard field goal, and RB Chester Taylor
getting a 84-yard TD run. In the third quarter, San Francisco would get their only score of the game as QB Shaun Hill
completed a 5-yard TD pass to WR Arnaz Battle
.
With the loss, the 49ers fell to 3-10. The only positive from the game was that the Niners held rookie RB phenom Adrian Peterson to just 3 rushing yards on 14 carries.
Starting QB Trent Dilfer
(7/19 for 45 yards and 1 interception) left the game in the second quarter with a head injury.
. With QB Trent Dilfer
out with an injury, back-up Shaun Hill
would be making his first career start.
After a scoreless first quarter, the Niners drew first blood in the second quarter as Hill got a 3-yard TD run. However, the Bengals would take the lead as kicker Shayne Graham
managed to get a 24-yard field goal, while QB Carson Palmer
completed a 52-yard TD pass to WR Chris Henry. The Niners would end the half as Hill completed a 17-yard TD pass to TE Vernon Davis
.
In the third quarter, San Francisco increased their lead with kicker Joe Nedney
managing to get a 29-yard and a 38-yard field goal. In the fourth quarter, Cincinnati tried to mount a comeback as Graham kicked a 35-yard field goal. Fortunately, the Niners' defense held on for the impressive victory.
With the win, the 49ers improved to 4-10.
as their final home game of the season, and of perennial pro-bowler Bryant Young
's career.
With the Buccaneers
clinching their division in Week 15, and no improvement in their seed in sight, they treated it as a glorified exhibition game by resting the majority of their starters after the first few drives. Although it wasn't an important game in the standings for either team, the 49ers had their pride - and maybe their head coach Mike Nolan
's job - on the line, and the Bucs wanted to make sure that their momentum and edge keeps up as they enter the playoffs.
The game came down to a matter of inches, as the Buccaneers final touchdown with 80 seconds remaining led to a failed 2-point attempt that would have been a tying score; receiver Michael Clayton caught the pass in the back of the end zone but half of his foot came down out of bounds.
.
Coming off a fierce divisional road win over the Rams, the 49ers flew to Heinz Field
Heinz Field
Heinz Field is a stadium located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It primarily serves as the home to the Pittsburgh Steelers and University of Pittsburgh Panthers American football teams, members of the National Football League and National Collegiate Athletic Association respectively...
for an interconference duel with the Pittsburgh Steelers
Pittsburgh Steelers
The Pittsburgh Steelers are a professional football team based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The team currently belongs to the North Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League . Founded in , the Steelers are the oldest franchise in the AFC...
. In the first quarter, the Niners struck first with kicker Joe Nedney
Joe Nedney
Joseph Thomas Nedney is an American football placekicker who is currently a free agent. Born and raised in San Jose, California, Nedney played college football at San Jose State and signed as an undrafted player with the Miami Dolphins in 1996...
getting a 32-yard field goal. The Steelers would immediately respond with CB–PR Allen Rossum
Allen Rossum
Allen Bonshaca Lamont Rossum is an American football cornerback and return specialist who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the third round of the 1998 NFL Draft...
returning a punt 98 yards for a touchdown. San Francisco wrapped up the period with Nedney kicking a 22-yard field goal. In the second quarter, Pittsburgh increased its lead with QB Ben Roethlisberger
Ben Roethlisberger
Benjamin Todd "Ben" Roethlisberger , nicknamed Big Ben, is an American football quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Steelers in the first round in the 2004 NFL Draft...
completing a 9-yard TD pass to TE Jerame Tuman
Jerame Tuman
Jerame Dean Tuman is an American football tight end who is a free agent. He was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the fifth round of the 1999 NFL Draft. He played college football at Michigan....
for the only score of the period.
In the third quarter, the Steelers increased its lead with kicker Jeff Reed nailing a 36-yard field goal. The Niners would reply with Nedney kicking a 49-yard field goal. In the fourth quarter, Pittsburgh took control with Reed getting a 49-yard and a 35-yard field goal, while CB Bryant McFadden
Bryant McFadden
Bryant McFadden is an American football cornerback for the Pittsburgh Steelers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Steelers in the second round of the 2005 NFL Draft. He played college football at Florida State.McFadden has also played for the Arizona Cardinals...
returned an interception 50 yards for a touchdown. San Francisco got a touchdown as QB Alex Smith
Alex Smith
Alexander Douglas Smith is a professional American football player and starting quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers of the National Football League. Smith was drafted with the 1st-overall pick in the 1st round of the 2005 NFL Draft by San Francisco from the University of Utah...
completed a 21-yard pass to WR Taylor Jacobs
Taylor Jacobs
Taylor Houser Jacobs is a former American college and professional football player who was a wide receiver in the National Football League for five seasons in the early 2000s...
. Afterwards, the Steelers ended the game with RB Najeh Davenport
Najeh Davenport
Najeh Trenadious Monté Davenport is a former American football running back. He was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the fourth round of the 2002 NFL Draft...
getting a 39-yard TD run.
With the loss, the 49ers fell to 2–1.
Scoring summary
Q1 - SF - 9:24 - Joe Nedney
Joe Nedney
Joseph Thomas Nedney is an American football placekicker who is currently a free agent. Born and raised in San Jose, California, Nedney played college football at San Jose State and signed as an undrafted player with the Miami Dolphins in 1996...
32-yard FG (SF 3-0)
Q1 - PIT - 9:12 - Allen Rossum
Allen Rossum
Allen Bonshaca Lamont Rossum is an American football cornerback and return specialist who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the third round of the 1998 NFL Draft...
98-yard kickoff return (PIT 7-3)
Q1 - SF - 3:01 - Joe Nedney 22-yard FG (PIT 7-6)
Q2 - PIT - 0:37 - Jerame Tuman
Jerame Tuman
Jerame Dean Tuman is an American football tight end who is a free agent. He was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the fifth round of the 1999 NFL Draft. He played college football at Michigan....
9-yard pass from Ben Roethlisberger
Ben Roethlisberger
Benjamin Todd "Ben" Roethlisberger , nicknamed Big Ben, is an American football quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Steelers in the first round in the 2004 NFL Draft...
(Jeff Reed kick) (PIT 14-6)
Q3 - PIT - 9:41 - Jeff Reed 36-yard FG (PIT 17-6)
Q3 - SF - 4:46 - Joe Nedney 49-yard FG (PIT 17-9)
Q4 - PIT - 14:55 - Jeff Reed 49-yard FG (PIT 20-9)
Q4 - PIT - 4:59 - Jeff Reed 35-yard FG (PIT 23-9)
Q4 - PIT - 4:01 - Bryant McFadden
Bryant McFadden
Bryant McFadden is an American football cornerback for the Pittsburgh Steelers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Steelers in the second round of the 2005 NFL Draft. He played college football at Florida State.McFadden has also played for the Arizona Cardinals...
50-yard interception return (Reed kick) (PIT 30-9)
Q4 - SF - 2:22 - Taylor Jacobs
Taylor Jacobs
Taylor Houser Jacobs is a former American college and professional football player who was a wide receiver in the National Football League for five seasons in the early 2000s...
21-yard pass from Alex Smith
Alex Smith
Alexander Douglas Smith is a professional American football player and starting quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers of the National Football League. Smith was drafted with the 1st-overall pick in the 1st round of the 2005 NFL Draft by San Francisco from the University of Utah...
(Nedney kick) (PIT 30-16)
Q4 - PIT - 1:51 - Najeh Davenport
Najeh Davenport
Najeh Trenadious Monté Davenport is a former American football running back. He was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the fourth round of the 2002 NFL Draft...
39-yard run (Nedney kick) (PIT 37–16)
Week 4: vs. Seattle Seahawks
Hoping to rebound from their road loss to the Steelers, the 49ers went home and played an NFC West battle with the Seattle SeahawksSeattle Seahawks
The Seattle Seahawks are a professional American football team based in Seattle, Washington. They are currently members of the Western Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League . The team joined the NFL in 1976 as an expansion team...
. In the first quarter, even though there were no points at all, the Niners lost QB Alex Smith
Alex Smith
Alexander Douglas Smith is a professional American football player and starting quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers of the National Football League. Smith was drafted with the 1st-overall pick in the 1st round of the 2005 NFL Draft by San Francisco from the University of Utah...
with a separated shoulder during a sack. Back-up QB Trent Dilfer
Trent Dilfer
Trent Farris Dilfer is a former football quarterback in the National Football League. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers sixth overall in the 1994 NFL Draft and went on to play for the Baltimore Ravens, Seattle Seahawks, Cleveland Browns and San Francisco 49ers. He played college football...
would take the position for the rest of the game. In the second quarter, San Francisco's recent woes continued with Seahawks kicker Josh Brown getting a 23-yard field goal. Afterwards, Seattle began to pound away with QB Matt Hasselbeck
Matt Hasselbeck
Matthew Michael Hasselbeck is a National Football League quarterback for the Tennessee Titans. He was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the sixth round of the 1998 NFL Draft, and traded to Seattle in 2001. After becoming the starter in 2003, Hasselbeck led Seattle to six playoff appearances and...
completing a 17-yard TD pass to WR Bobby Engram
Bobby Engram
Simon J. "Bobby" Engram III is currently the offensive assistant coach for the San Francisco 49ers of the NFL. He was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the second round of the 1996 NFL Draft...
, along with Brown kicking a 31-yard field goal.
In the third quarter, the Seahawks continued their domination as Hasselbeck completed a 14-yard TD pass to TE Marcus Pollard
Marcus Pollard
Marcus LaJuan Pollard is a former American football tight end.-College career:Pollard attended Bradley University, where he played basketball. Bradley did not have a football program at the time he matriculated there...
. The Niners would get their only score of the game as kicker Joe Nedney
Joe Nedney
Joseph Thomas Nedney is an American football placekicker who is currently a free agent. Born and raised in San Jose, California, Nedney played college football at San Jose State and signed as an undrafted player with the Miami Dolphins in 1996...
got a 43-yard field goal. In the fourth quarter, Seattle sealed San Francisco's doom with Brown nailing a 25-yard field goal.
With their second-straight loss, the 49ers fell to 2-2.
Week 5: vs. Baltimore Ravens
Trying to break a two-game skid, the 49ers stayed at home for a Week 5 interconference matchup with the Baltimore RavensBaltimore Ravens
The Baltimore Ravens are a professional football franchise based in Baltimore, Maryland.The Baltimore Ravens are officially a quasi-expansion franchise, having originated in 1995 with the Cleveland Browns relocation controversy after Art Modell, then owner of the Cleveland Browns, announced his...
. With QB Alex Smith
Alex Smith
Alexander Douglas Smith is a professional American football player and starting quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers of the National Football League. Smith was drafted with the 1st-overall pick in the 1st round of the 2005 NFL Draft by San Francisco from the University of Utah...
out with a shoulder injury, back-up Trent Dilfer
Trent Dilfer
Trent Farris Dilfer is a former football quarterback in the National Football League. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers sixth overall in the 1994 NFL Draft and went on to play for the Baltimore Ravens, Seattle Seahawks, Cleveland Browns and San Francisco 49ers. He played college football...
was given the start against the team to which he helped deliver a Super Bowl title.
After a scoreless first quarter, the Ravens got the lead with kicker Matt Stover
Matt Stover
John Matthew "Matt" Stover is a former American Football placekicker. As of the start of the 2009 NFL season, he was the third most accurate kicker in the history of the National Football League. He is of Greek origin. He has played for the New York Giants, the Cleveland Browns, and the Baltimore...
getting a 26-yard and a 32-yard field goal. In the third quarter, Baltimore increased its lead with Stover nailing a 49-yard field goal. The Niners came close to taking the lead with Dilfer complting a 49-yard TD pass to WR Arnaz Battle
Arnaz Battle
Arnaz Jerome Battle is an American football wide receiver for the Pittsburgh Steelers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the sixth round of the 2003 NFL Draft...
. With two minutes left in the fourth quarter, the 49ers had a chance to take the lead, but kicker Joe Nedney
Joe Nedney
Joseph Thomas Nedney is an American football placekicker who is currently a free agent. Born and raised in San Jose, California, Nedney played college football at San Jose State and signed as an undrafted player with the Miami Dolphins in 1996...
missed a 52-yard field goal and the Ravens ran out the clock.
With their third straight loss, the 49ers entered their bye week at 2-3.
Week 7: at New York Giants
Trying to snap a three-game losing streak, the 49ers flew to Giants StadiumGiants Stadium
Giants Stadium was a multi-purpose stadium, located in East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA, in the Meadowlands Sports Complex. Maximum seating capacity was 80,242. The building itself was 230.5 m long, 180.5 m wide and 44 m high from service level to the top of the seating bowl and 54 m high to...
for a Week 7 brawl with the New York Giants
New York Giants
The New York Giants are a professional American football team based in East Rutherford, New Jersey, representing the New York City metropolitan area. The Giants are currently members of the Eastern Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League...
. With QB Alex Smith
Alex Smith
Alexander Douglas Smith is a professional American football player and starting quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers of the National Football League. Smith was drafted with the 1st-overall pick in the 1st round of the 2005 NFL Draft by San Francisco from the University of Utah...
still recovering from a shoulder injury, back-up Trent Dilfer
Trent Dilfer
Trent Farris Dilfer is a former football quarterback in the National Football League. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers sixth overall in the 1994 NFL Draft and went on to play for the Baltimore Ravens, Seattle Seahawks, Cleveland Browns and San Francisco 49ers. He played college football...
once again got the start. In the first quarter, the Niners trailed early as Giants QB Eli Manning
Eli Manning
Eli Nelson Manning is an American football quarterback for the New York Giants of the National Football League. He is the younger brother of NFL quarterback Peyton Manning and the son of former NFL quarterback Archie Manning...
hooked up with WR Amani Toomer
Amani Toomer
Amani Toomer is a retired American football wide receiver who played in the National Football League. He was drafted by the New York Giants in the second round of the 1996 NFL Draft. He played college football at Michigan, where he was a fan favorite.Toomer has also been a member of the Kansas...
on a 4-yard TD pass (with a missed PAT) for the only score of the period. In the second quarter, San Francisco took the lead with Dilfer completing a 17-yard TD pass to WR Arnaz Battle
Arnaz Battle
Arnaz Jerome Battle is an American football wide receiver for the Pittsburgh Steelers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the sixth round of the 2003 NFL Draft...
. However, New York responded with RB Brandon Jacobs
Brandon Jacobs
-New York Giants:Going into the 2006 season Jacobs stated that he studied film of famed power running back Eddie George in an effort to refine his running style. George, like Jacobs, was a large, power running back. In the 2006 season, Jacobs carried the ball 96 times for 423 yards and nine...
getting a 5-yard TD run, while kicker Lawrence Tynes
Lawrence Tynes
Lawrence James Henry Tynes is an American football placekicker for the New York Giants. He was originally signed by the Kansas City Chiefs as an undrafted free agent in 2001.-Early years:...
nailed field goals of 29 and 39 yards.
In the third quarter, things got worse for the Niners as Giants DE Osi Umenyiora
Osi Umenyiora
-2003:Umenyiora was drafted in the 2nd round of the 2003 NFL Draft by the New York Giants out of Troy State University, now Troy University. He was number 72. As a rookie in 2003, he played in 13 games with one start.-2005:...
sacked Dilfer, causing a fumble, picked up the loose ball, and ran 75 yards for a touchdown. San Francisco would manage to get a safety as FB Moran Norris
Moran Norris
Torrance Moran Norris ; born June 16, 1978) is an American football fullback for the San Francisco 49ers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the New Orleans Saints in the fourth round of the 2001 NFL Draft...
blocked a punt, which went out of bounds in the endzone. In the fourth quarter, New York sealed its win with Manning completing a 2-yard TD pass to TE Jeremy Shockey
Jeremy Shockey
Jeremy Charles Shockey is an American football tight end for the Carolina Panthers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the New York Giants 14th overall in the 2002 NFL Draft...
. The Niners ended its day with Dilfer completing a 1-yard TD pass to WR Darrell Jackson
Darrell Jackson
Darrell Lamont Jackson is a former American college and professional football player who was a wide receiver in the National Football League for nine seasons...
(with a failed 2-point conversion).
With its fourth-straight loss, the 49ers fell to 2-4.
Week 8: vs. New Orleans Saints
Trying to snap a four-game skid, the 49ers went home for a Week 8 intraconference duel with the New Orleans SaintsNew Orleans Saints
The New Orleans Saints are a professional American football team based in New Orleans, Louisiana. They are members of the South Division of the National Football Conference of the National Football League ....
. QB Alex Smith
Alex Smith
Alexander Douglas Smith is a professional American football player and starting quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers of the National Football League. Smith was drafted with the 1st-overall pick in the 1st round of the 2005 NFL Draft by San Francisco from the University of Utah...
(who was recovering from a separate right shoulder since Week 4) was healthy enough to get the start.
In the first quarter, San Francisco trailed early as Saints QB Drew Brees
Drew Brees
Drew Christopher Brees is a quarterback for the New Orleans Saints of the National Football League. He was drafted by the San Diego Chargers in the second round of the 2001 NFL Draft. He played college football at Purdue....
completed a 17-yard TD pass to WR Marques Colston
Marques Colston
Marques Colston is an American football wide receiver for the New Orleans Saints of the NFL. He was selected in the seventh round of the 2006 NFL Draft as a supplemental compensatory pick. Following the trade of receiver Donté Stallworth, Colston was inserted into the starting lineup for week 1 of...
, while kicker Olindo Mare
Olindo Mare
Olindo Franco Mare is an American football placekicker for the Carolina Panthers of the National Football League. He was originally signed by the New York Giants as an undrafted free agent in 1996...
nailed a 26-yard field goal. In the second quarter, the Niners struggles continued as Brees completed a 2-yard TD pass to WR Terrance Copper
Terrance Copper
Terrance Terrel Copper is an American football wide receiver for the Kansas City Chiefs of the National Football League. He was signed by the Dallas Cowboys as an undrafted free agent...
, along with completing a 3-yard TD pass to Colston. In the third quarter, San Francisco managed to get on the board with kicker Joe Nedney
Joe Nedney
Joseph Thomas Nedney is an American football placekicker who is currently a free agent. Born and raised in San Jose, California, Nedney played college football at San Jose State and signed as an undrafted player with the Miami Dolphins in 1996...
getting a 29-yard field goal for the only score of the period. In the fourth quarter, New Orleans wrapped up the win with Brees and Colston hooking up with each other again on a 15-yard TD pass. The Niners' only response was Smith completing a 7-yard TD pass to TE Vernon Davis
Vernon Davis
-2006 rookie season:Vernon's first reception in the NFL was a 31-yard touchdown catch, against the Arizona Cardinals on September 10, 2006. He added a career-long 52-yard touchdown against the Green Bay Packers on December 10 with a short catch followed by a long run. Davis played in ten games in...
.
With their fifth-straight loss, the 49ers dropped to 2-5.
Week 9: at Atlanta Falcons
Trying to break a five-game losing skid, the 49ers flew to the Georgia DomeGeorgia Dome
The Georgia Dome is a domed stadium located in Atlanta, Georgia, United States, between downtown to the east and Vine City to the west. It is primarily the home stadium for the NFL Atlanta Falcons and the NCAA Division I FCS Georgia State Panthers football team. It is owned and operated by the...
for a Week 9 intraconference duel with the Atlanta Falcons
Atlanta Falcons
The Atlanta Falcons are a professional American football team based in Atlanta, Georgia. They are a member of the South Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League...
. In the first quarter, the Niners struck first as RB Maurice Hicks
Maurice Hicks
Maurice Hicks is an American football running back for the Florida Tuskers of the United Football League. He was originally signed by the Chicago Bears as an undrafted free agent in 2002...
got a 9-yard TD run. However, the Falcons answered with RB Warrick Dunn
Warrick Dunn
Warrick De'Mon Dunn is a former American football running back, and current minority owner of the Atlanta Falcons. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 12th overall in the 1997 NFL Draft, after playing college football at Florida State...
getting a 9-yard TD run. In the second quarter, San Francisco fell behind as Atlanta RB Ovie Mughelli
Ovie Mughelli
Ovie Phillip Mughelli is an American football fullback for the Atlanta Falcons of the NFL. He signed a 6-year, $18 million contract with a $5 million signing bonus on March 2, 2007 with the Falcons...
got a 1-yard TD run for the only score of the period.
In the third quarter, the 49ers crept close as kicker Joe Nedney
Joe Nedney
Joseph Thomas Nedney is an American football placekicker who is currently a free agent. Born and raised in San Jose, California, Nedney played college football at San Jose State and signed as an undrafted player with the Miami Dolphins in 1996...
got a 49-yard and a 32-yard field goal. However, in the fourth quarter, the Falcons replied with kicker Morten Andersen
Morten Andersen
Morten Andersen , nicknamed "The Great Dane", is a former National Football League kicker. He holds the distinction of being the all-time leading scorer in NFL history, as well as being the all-time leading scorer for two different teams; the New Orleans Saints, with whom he spent 13 seasons, and...
getting a 33-yard field goal. Nedney and the Niners tried to close the gap as Nedney kicked a 22-yard field goal. Unfortunately, Andersen's 27-yard field goal helped seal Atlanta's win.
With their sixth-straight loss, the 49ers dropped to 2-6.
Week 10: at Seattle Seahawks
Trying to snap their six-game losing streak, the 49ers flew to Qwest FieldQwest Field
CenturyLink Field is a multi-purpose stadium in Seattle, Washington, United States. It serves as the home field for the Seattle Seahawks of the National Football League and Seattle Sounders FC of Major League Soccer...
for an NFC West rematch on Monday Night Football with the Seattle Seahawks
Seattle Seahawks
The Seattle Seahawks are a professional American football team based in Seattle, Washington. They are currently members of the Western Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League . The team joined the NFL in 1976 as an expansion team...
. In the first quarter, the Niners trailed early as Seahawks QB Matt Hasselbeck
Matt Hasselbeck
Matthew Michael Hasselbeck is a National Football League quarterback for the Tennessee Titans. He was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the sixth round of the 1998 NFL Draft, and traded to Seattle in 2001. After becoming the starter in 2003, Hasselbeck led Seattle to six playoff appearances and...
completed a 1-yard TD pass to TE Will Heller
Will Heller
Will Sanders Heller is an American football tight end for the Detroit Lions of the National Football League. He was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2003...
, along with kicker Josh Brown. In the second quarter, San Francisco's struggles continued as RB Maurice Morris
Maurice Morris
Maurice Autora Morris is an American football running back for the Detroit Lions of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in the second round of the 2002 NFL Draft. He played college football at Oregon.-Early life:Morris attended Chester High School in Chester, South...
gave Seattle a 6-yard TD run for the only score of the period. After a scoreless third quarter, the Seahawks sealed the win and the season-sweep with Hasselbeck completing a 10-yard TD pass to WR D.J. Hackett
D.J. Hackett
DeAndre James "D. J." Hackett is an American football wide receiver who is currently a Free Agent. He was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in the fifth round of the 2004 NFL Draft...
.
With their seventh-straight loss, the 49ers fell to 2-7.
Week 11: vs. St. Louis Rams
Trying to break their seven-game losing skid, the 49ers went home, donned their throwback uniforms, and played their Week 11 NFC West rematch with the St. Louis RamsSt. Louis Rams
The St. Louis Rams are a professional American football team based in St. Louis, Missouri. They are currently members of the West Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League . The Rams have won three NFL Championships .The Rams began playing in 1936 in Cleveland,...
. In the first quarter, the Niners' struggles continued as Rams QB Marc Bulger
Marc Bulger
Marc Robert Bulger [] is a former American football quarterback. He was drafted by the New Orleans Saints in the sixth round of the 2000 NFL Draft. He played college football at West Virginia....
completed a 3-yard TD reception to WR Torry Holt
Torry Holt
After injuring his knee at the Senior Bowl, Holt, at 192 pounds, ran a 4.44 second 40-yard dash and had a vertical jump of 37 inches at the 1999 NFL Combine-St. Louis Rams:...
. San Francisco managed to respond with kicker Joe Nedney
Joe Nedney
Joseph Thomas Nedney is an American football placekicker who is currently a free agent. Born and raised in San Jose, California, Nedney played college football at San Jose State and signed as an undrafted player with the Miami Dolphins in 1996...
28-yard field goal. In the second quarter, St. Louis increased its lead with kicker Jeff Wilkins
Jeff Wilkins
For the American basketball player, see Jeff Wilkins .Jeffrey Allen Wilkins nicknamed "Money" is a former American football placekicker in the National Football League for the San Francisco 49ers, Philadelphia Eagles and St Louis Rams. He played college football at Youngstown State University...
getting a 49-yard field goal for the only score of the period.
After a scoreless third quarter, the Rams sealed the win with Wilkins kicking a 35-yard field goal. The Niners tried to mount a comeback as Nedney nailed a 38-yard and a 46-yard field goal. However, on four-straight plays deep in St. Louis territory, four shots to the endzone resulted in 3 incompletions and an interception.
With their eighth-straight loss, the 49ers dropped to 2-8.
Week 12: at Arizona Cardinals
Trying to snap an eight-game losing streak, the 49ers flew to the University of Phoenix StadiumUniversity of Phoenix Stadium
University of Phoenix Stadium, opened August 1, 2006, is a multipurpose football stadium located in Glendale, Arizona. It is the home of the Arizona Cardinals of the National Football League and the annual Fiesta Bowl...
for a Week 12 NFC West rematch with the Arizona Cardinals
Arizona Cardinals
The Arizona Cardinals are a professional American football team based in Glendale, Arizona, a suburb of Phoenix. They are currently members of the Western Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League...
. In the first quarter, the Niners trailed early as Cardinals QB Kurt Warner
Kurt Warner
Kurtis Eugene "Kurt" Warner is a retired American football player. He played quarterback for three National Football League teams: the St. Louis Rams, the New York Giants, and the Arizona Cardinals. He was originally signed by the Green Bay Packers as an undrafted free agent in 1994 after playing...
completed a 28-yard TD pass to WR Larry Fitzgerald
Larry Fitzgerald
Larry Darnell Fitzgerald, Jr. is an American football wide receiver for the Arizona Cardinals of the National Football League, and currently ranks fourth all-time in league history in receiving yards per game for a career , behind Andre Johnson, Torry Holt, and Marvin Harrison...
. San Francisco responded with QB Trent Dilfer
Trent Dilfer
Trent Farris Dilfer is a former football quarterback in the National Football League. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers sixth overall in the 1994 NFL Draft and went on to play for the Baltimore Ravens, Seattle Seahawks, Cleveland Browns and San Francisco 49ers. He played college football...
completed a 2-yard TD pass to TE Vernon Davis
Vernon Davis
-2006 rookie season:Vernon's first reception in the NFL was a 31-yard touchdown catch, against the Arizona Cardinals on September 10, 2006. He added a career-long 52-yard touchdown against the Green Bay Packers on December 10 with a short catch followed by a long run. Davis played in ten games in...
. In the second quarter, the 49ers took the lead with kicker Joe Nedney
Joe Nedney
Joseph Thomas Nedney is an American football placekicker who is currently a free agent. Born and raised in San Jose, California, Nedney played college football at San Jose State and signed as an undrafted player with the Miami Dolphins in 1996...
getting a 19-yard field goal & RB Frank Gore
Frank Gore
Franklin Gore is an American football running back who plays for the San Francisco 49ers of the National Football League. He played college football at the University of Miami. NFL Network analysts have nicknamed Gore "The Inconvenient Truth".-High school career:Gore attended Coral Gables High...
getting an 11-yard TD run. However, Arizona regained the lead with RB Marcel Shipp
Marcel Shipp
Marcel Cornelius Shipp is an American football running back for the Las Vegas Locomotives of the United Football League. He played in the NFL from 2001-2008 for the Arizona Cardinals and Houston Texans. He was signed by the Arizona Cardinals as an undrafted free agent in 2001, and played with them...
getting a 1-yard TD run & Warner hooking up with Fitzgerald again on a 48-yard TD pass.
In the third quarter, the Niners retook the lead as Dilfer completed a 57-yard TD pass to WR Arnaz Battle
Arnaz Battle
Arnaz Jerome Battle is an American football wide receiver for the Pittsburgh Steelers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the sixth round of the 2003 NFL Draft...
for the only score of the period. In the fourth quarter, it was back-and-forth as Cardinals QB Tim Rattay
Tim Rattay
Timothy F. Rattay [] is a former professional American football quarterback who played in the National Football League and United Football League. He was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the seventh round of the 2000 NFL Draft...
(a former 49er) completed a 2-yard TD pass to TE Ben Patrick
Ben Patrick
Ben Patrick is an American football tight end who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in the seventh round of the 2007 NFL Draft. He played college football at Duke and Delaware....
, while Gore managed to get a 35-yard TD run. Afterwards, Arizona ended regulation with kicker Neil Rackers
Neil Rackers
Neil William Rackers is an American football placekicker for the Houston Texans of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the sixth round of the 2000 NFL Draft...
getting a 19-yard TD field goal. In overtime, the ball went back and forth between the Cardinals and the 49ers. When the Cardinals had the ball, Kurt Warner
Kurt Warner
Kurtis Eugene "Kurt" Warner is a retired American football player. He played quarterback for three National Football League teams: the St. Louis Rams, the New York Giants, and the Arizona Cardinals. He was originally signed by the Green Bay Packers as an undrafted free agent in 1994 after playing...
threw the ball to WR Sean Morey who appeared to have a sure touchdown, but was run down by 49ers rookie linebacker
Linebacker
A linebacker is a position in American football that was invented by football coach Fielding H. Yost of the University of Michigan. Linebackers are members of the defensive team, and line up approximately three to five yards behind the line of scrimmage, behind the defensive linemen...
Patrick Willis
Patrick Willis
Patrick L. Willis is an American football player who plays inside linebacker for the San Francisco 49ers of the National Football League. He was selected by the San Francisco 49ers 11th overall in the 2007 NFL Draft...
. Kicker Neil Rackers
Neil Rackers
Neil William Rackers is an American football placekicker for the Houston Texans of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the sixth round of the 2000 NFL Draft...
missed a field goal, and the 49ers got the ball back. After a three and out, punter Andy Lee
Andy Lee (American football)
Andrew Paul Lee is a punter in the National Football League. He was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the 6th round in the 2004 NFL Draft and is currently serving a 6 year, $7.1 million contract that runs through 2012. The contract also included a $1.66 million signing bonus...
pinned the Cardinals close to their own endzone. San Francisco lifted their demons with stripping Warner in his endzone and LB Tully Banta-Cain
Tully Banta-Cain
Tully Banta-Cain is an American football linebacker who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the New England Patriots in the seventh round of the 2003 NFL Draft. He played college football at California.Banta-Cain earned two Super Bowl rings during his first stint with the Patriots...
landed on it for the touchdown and the win.
With the win, not only did the 49ers improve to 3-8, it also snapped their dreaded eight-game losing streak. It also gave them a season-sweep over the Cardinals. It would also improve their overtime record under head coach Mike Nolan
Mike Nolan
Mike Nolan is an American football coach and the current defensive coordinator of the Miami Dolphins...
to 3-0. With the victory, the 49ers improved to 2-0 against the Cardinals and 1-8 against everyone else this season.
Week 13: at Carolina Panthers
Coming off an impressive divisional road win over the Cardinals, the 49ers flew to Bank of America StadiumBank of America Stadium
Bank of America Stadium is a 73,778-seat football stadium located on of land in uptown Charlotte, North Carolina, USA. It is the home facility of the Carolina Panthers NFL franchise. It also hosts the annual Belk Bowl which features teams from the Atlantic Coast Conference and the Big East...
for a Week 13 intraconference game with the Carolina Panthers
Carolina Panthers
The Carolina Panthers are a professional American football team based in Charlotte, North Carolina. They are currently members of the South Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League . The Panthers, along with the Jacksonville Jaguars, joined the NFL as expansion...
. In the first quarter, the Niners trailed early as Panthers kicker John Kasay
John Kasay
John David Kasay is an American football kicker for the New Orleans Saints of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in the fourth round of the 1991 NFL Draft. He played college football at Georgia...
nailing a 19-yard field goal for the only score of the period. In the second quarter, San Francisco continued to struggle as Carolina QB Vinny Testaverde
Vinny Testaverde
Vincent Frank Testaverde is a former NFL quarterback. Testaverde last played for the Carolina Panthers and had previously played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Cleveland Browns, Baltimore Ravens, New York Jets, Dallas Cowboys and New England Patriots. Testaverde holds the NFL record for having...
completed a 5-yard to TE Dante Rosario
Dante Rosario
Dante Santiago Rosario is an American football tight end who is currently a member of the Denver Broncos of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Carolina Panthers in the fifth round of the 2007 NFL Draft...
, along with CB Richard Marshall returning an interception 67 yards for a touchdown.
In the third quarter, the Niners managed to get on the board with QB Trent Dilfer
Trent Dilfer
Trent Farris Dilfer is a former football quarterback in the National Football League. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers sixth overall in the 1994 NFL Draft and went on to play for the Baltimore Ravens, Seattle Seahawks, Cleveland Browns and San Francisco 49ers. He played college football...
completing a 20-yard TD pass to WR Arnaz Battle
Arnaz Battle
Arnaz Jerome Battle is an American football wide receiver for the Pittsburgh Steelers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the sixth round of the 2003 NFL Draft...
and 21-yard TD pass to TE Delanie Walker
Delanie Walker
Delanie Walker is an American football tight end for the San Francisco 49ers of the National Football League. He has also played in the positions of fullback and wide receiver. He was drafted by the 49ers in the sixth round of the 2006 NFL Draft. He played college football at Central Missouri...
. Afterwards, the Panthers replied with RB DeShaun Foster
DeShaun Foster
DeShaun Xavier Foster is an American football running back who is currently a free agent. He was originally drafted by the Carolina Panthers in the second round of the 2002 NFL Draft. He played college football at UCLA.-Early years:...
getting a 1-yard TD run. In the fourth quarter, Carolina sealed the win with Testaverde completing a 1-yard TD pass to TE Jeff King
Jeff King (American football)
Jeffery "Jeff" W. King is an American football tight end in the National Football League with the Arizona Cardinals. He played college football and basketball for Virginia Tech.-Football:...
.
With the loss, not only did the 49ers drop to 3-9, it guaranteed them their fifth consecutive losing season since San Francisco's last playoff appearance in 2002.
Week 14: vs. Minnesota Vikings
Hoping to rebound from their road loss to the Panthers, the 49ers went home for a Week 14 duel with the Minnesota VikingsMinnesota Vikings
The Minnesota Vikings are a professional American football team based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Vikings joined the National Football League as an expansion team in 1960...
. In the first quarter, the Niners trailed early as Vikings DT Kevin Williams returned an interception 18 yards for a touchdown, while kicker Ryan Longwell
Ryan Longwell
Ryan Walker Longwell is an American football placekicker for the Minnesota Vikings in the National Football League. After playing college football for the California Golden Bears, he started his professional football career with the San Francisco 49ers, but never played a game for the franchise...
managed to get a 48-yard field goal. In the second quarter, Minnesota sealed the win early as QB Tarvaris Jackson
Tarvaris Jackson
Tarvaris DeAndre Jackson is an American football quarterback who is currently a member of the Seattle Seahawks. He was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the second round of the 2006 NFL Draft...
completed a 19-yard TD pass to WR Robert Ferguson, Longwell nailing a 46-yard field goal, and RB Chester Taylor
Chester Taylor
Chester Lamar Taylor also known as "Che Tay" is an American football running back of the National Football League who is currently on the Arizona Cardinals. He was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in the sixth round of the 2002 NFL Draft...
getting a 84-yard TD run. In the third quarter, San Francisco would get their only score of the game as QB Shaun Hill
Shaun Hill
Shaun Hill is an American football quarterback for the Detroit Lions of the National Football League. He was signed by the Minnesota Vikings as an undrafted free agent in 2002...
completed a 5-yard TD pass to WR Arnaz Battle
Arnaz Battle
Arnaz Jerome Battle is an American football wide receiver for the Pittsburgh Steelers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the sixth round of the 2003 NFL Draft...
.
With the loss, the 49ers fell to 3-10. The only positive from the game was that the Niners held rookie RB phenom Adrian Peterson to just 3 rushing yards on 14 carries.
Starting QB Trent Dilfer
Trent Dilfer
Trent Farris Dilfer is a former football quarterback in the National Football League. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers sixth overall in the 1994 NFL Draft and went on to play for the Baltimore Ravens, Seattle Seahawks, Cleveland Browns and San Francisco 49ers. He played college football...
(7/19 for 45 yards and 1 interception) left the game in the second quarter with a head injury.
Week 15: vs. Cincinnati Bengals
Trying to snap a two-game skid, the 49ers stayed at home for a Saturday night interconference battle with the Cincinnati BengalsCincinnati Bengals
The Cincinnati Bengals are a professional football team based in Cincinnati, Ohio. They are members of the AFC's North Division in the National Football League . The Bengals began play in 1968 as an expansion team in the American Football League , and joined the NFL in 1970 in the AFL-NFL...
. With QB Trent Dilfer
Trent Dilfer
Trent Farris Dilfer is a former football quarterback in the National Football League. He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers sixth overall in the 1994 NFL Draft and went on to play for the Baltimore Ravens, Seattle Seahawks, Cleveland Browns and San Francisco 49ers. He played college football...
out with an injury, back-up Shaun Hill
Shaun Hill
Shaun Hill is an American football quarterback for the Detroit Lions of the National Football League. He was signed by the Minnesota Vikings as an undrafted free agent in 2002...
would be making his first career start.
After a scoreless first quarter, the Niners drew first blood in the second quarter as Hill got a 3-yard TD run. However, the Bengals would take the lead as kicker Shayne Graham
Shayne Graham
Michael Shayne Graham is an American football placekicker. He was signed by the New Orleans Saints as an undrafted free agent in 2000, and most recently played with the New England Patriots...
managed to get a 24-yard field goal, while QB Carson Palmer
Carson Palmer
Carson Palmer is an American professional football quarterback for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals first overall in the 2003 NFL Draft. He played collegiately at the University of Southern California and won the Heisman Trophy in 2002...
completed a 52-yard TD pass to WR Chris Henry. The Niners would end the half as Hill completed a 17-yard TD pass to TE Vernon Davis
Vernon Davis
-2006 rookie season:Vernon's first reception in the NFL was a 31-yard touchdown catch, against the Arizona Cardinals on September 10, 2006. He added a career-long 52-yard touchdown against the Green Bay Packers on December 10 with a short catch followed by a long run. Davis played in ten games in...
.
In the third quarter, San Francisco increased their lead with kicker Joe Nedney
Joe Nedney
Joseph Thomas Nedney is an American football placekicker who is currently a free agent. Born and raised in San Jose, California, Nedney played college football at San Jose State and signed as an undrafted player with the Miami Dolphins in 1996...
managing to get a 29-yard and a 38-yard field goal. In the fourth quarter, Cincinnati tried to mount a comeback as Graham kicked a 35-yard field goal. Fortunately, the Niners' defense held on for the impressive victory.
With the win, the 49ers improved to 4-10.
Week 16: vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Rolling with the momentum from the previous week's upset, the 49ers took on the playoff-bound BuccaneersTampa Bay Buccaneers
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are a professional American football franchise based in Tampa, Florida, U.S. They are currently members of the Southern Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League – they are the only team in the division not to come from the old NFC West...
as their final home game of the season, and of perennial pro-bowler Bryant Young
Bryant Young
Bryant Colby Young is an American football coach serving as defensive line coach for the University of Florida and former NFL player for the San Francisco 49ers...
's career.
With the Buccaneers
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are a professional American football franchise based in Tampa, Florida, U.S. They are currently members of the Southern Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League – they are the only team in the division not to come from the old NFC West...
clinching their division in Week 15, and no improvement in their seed in sight, they treated it as a glorified exhibition game by resting the majority of their starters after the first few drives. Although it wasn't an important game in the standings for either team, the 49ers had their pride - and maybe their head coach Mike Nolan
Mike Nolan
Mike Nolan is an American football coach and the current defensive coordinator of the Miami Dolphins...
's job - on the line, and the Bucs wanted to make sure that their momentum and edge keeps up as they enter the playoffs.
The game came down to a matter of inches, as the Buccaneers final touchdown with 80 seconds remaining led to a failed 2-point attempt that would have been a tying score; receiver Michael Clayton caught the pass in the back of the end zone but half of his foot came down out of bounds.
Week 17: at Cleveland Browns
The 49ers finished the season with a loss, dropping to a final standings of 5-11. The Browns became just the fifth team in history to miss the playoffs after coming away with 10 victories in the regular season. The loss gave the 49ers the seventh pick in the 2008 NFL Draft, which they owed to the New England PatriotsNew England Patriots
The New England Patriots, commonly called the "Pats", are a professional football team based in the Greater Boston area, playing their home games in the town of Foxborough, Massachusetts at Gillette Stadium. The team is part of the East Division of the American Football Conference in the National...
.