San Francisco 49ers
With QB Colin Kaepernick watching again from the sideline, the 49ers offense broke out for 400 yards and 31 points against one of the NFL’s top defenses Saturday.
QB Blaine Gabbert and the first-team offense looked better in new coach Chip Kelly’s system, providing more evidence that he’s in position to win the starting job.
“I thought their second game together they were just more relaxed and playing football,” Kelly said after a 31-24 win against the Denver Broncos.
San Francisco’s offense moved the ball all night, even when new QB Christian Ponder was on the field. Ponder provided the
team’s only touchdown pass with a 30-yarder to WR Dres An
derson in the fourth quarter. The solid performance served as another sign that the 49ers are moving forward without Kaepernick (shoulder fatigue).
“He’s progressing,” Kelly said. “We have a logical plan in place, and it will be exciting to get him back.”
Rookie watch: First-round DT DeForest Buckner didn’t play because of an undisclosed injury that is not supposed to keep him out for long. … RB Kel
vin Taylor, a sixth-round pick, saw the most action among San Francisco’s running backs. He gained a team-high 47 yards on 10 carries and caught one pass.
Noteworthy: RB Mike Davis looked primed for a breakout year as Carlos Hyde’s backup heading into camp, but the second-year player fumbled twice in Saturday’s victory against Denver. “That situation has to be rectified,” Kelly said. … WR Bruce
Ellington, one of several receivers vying for starting jobs, has been slowed by a sprained ankle. … RT Anthony Davis saw snaps at guard in practice.