Game review

OFFENSE

That’s what is known as an inauspicious debut: Kyle Shanahan couldn’t scheme the 49ers into the end zone. The totals: 3 points, 13 first downs, 217 yards with all sorts of confusion (three false starts, illegal formation, delay of game). The offensive line offered strong pass protection in the preseason (key word: preseason). Expect Laken Tomlinson to replace guard Zane Beadles soon.

DEFENSE

The 49ers gave up 23 points, but it would have been far less if offensive miscues didn’t give Carolina short fields. The Panthers’ scoring drives: 42, 27, 37, 28 and 66 yards. The 49ers allowed just 287 yards, but didn’t provide many big plays outside of Jaquiski Tartt’s acrobatic interception. No sacks and two tackles for losses.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Carolina rookie Christian McCaffrey found little room on three punt returns (2.3-yard average), and Bradley Pinion didn’t allow the Panthers to return the two kickoffs he booted into the end zone. Rookie Trent Taylor was fearless on his lone punt return, which he caught in traffic and weaved down the sideline for 9 yards.

COACHING

If the 49ers convert the two fourth downs in the second quarter, Shanahan is a great gambler. But they didn’t, so the decisions will be calmly scrutinized. (Like this: Terrible!) Trailing 23-0 with a few seconds left in the third quarter, Shanahan turned conservative and elected for a 44-yard field goal on 4th-and-6. The decision made a three-score game … a three-score game.

OVERALL

A losing year by after19 at Carolina, the 49ers lost by 20 in Santa Clara. This does not smack of progress. Of course, there will be growing pains — no one predicted the 49ers would make the playoffs — but the offseason suggested they would certainly have an improved product. Maybe in Week 2?