Carolina Panthers Week 8 grades at San Francisco 49ers

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SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA – OCTOBER 27: Matt Breida #22 of the San Francisco 49ers is tackled by Luke Kuechly #59 of the Carolina Panthers during the first quarter at Levi’s Stadium on October 27, 2019 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /

Defense

Defensive Line: C
Linebackers: C+
Defensive Backs: C

After weeks of complimentary play, the defense struggled as they were continually on the field receiving little help from Allen and the offense. The results were apparent as San Francisco running back Tevin Coleman turned just 11 carries into over 100 yards and three touchdowns, in addition to another receiving score.

Even linebacker Luke Keuchly, who led the team with 10 tackles and made an interception, was caught out of position as 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan utilized multiple pre-snap motions and unique play designs. The results were positive for an offense who had been a bit inconsistent prior to Sunday.

Defensive end Bruce Irvin registered a safety early in the third-quarter, giving Carolina a sense of life after trailing 27-3 at the break. But after an offensive touchdown, the defense gave up an eight-play answer to the 49ers essentially ending any hope of a comeback.

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