Game review

OFFENSE

Wow, the Giants’ defense is a joke. But the 49ers certainly had something to do with creating those acres of space in the secondary. The 49ers had season highs in yards (474) and rushing yards (186), and averaged 8.2 yards per play. C.J. Beathard (123.4 rating) might not be the QB of the future, but he was a heck of a QB on Sunday (thanks in large part to his line: no sacks, two hits).

DEFENSE

Rookies LB Reuben Foster (10 tackles), S Adrian Colbert (two pass breakups) and CB Ahkello Witherspoon (pass breakup) played huge roles in limiting the Giants to 13 points and 284 yards before their garbagetime TD drive. The 49ers didn’t generate much pressure (three sacks, five hits), but Eli Manning was harassed into a fumble.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Bradley Pinion, one of the NFL’s hardestworking punters, didn’t have to launch his first punt until 5:46 was left in the game (45 yards net). Undrafted rookie Victor Bolden, subbing for injured starter Trent Taylor, had a fumbled punt return reversed on replay. Robbie Gould, Mr. Almost Automatic, drilled his only FG attempt (43 yards).

COACHING

Kyle Shanahan began the game with a strong commitment to the run and it helped open up a passing attack that accounted for three plays of 40 or more yards. No problem with decision to go for it on 4th-and-1 in the first quarter, but perhaps the dive to FB Kyle Juszczyk should be shelved in such a situation. It also failed in Week 1.

OVERALL

The 49ers deserved to celebrate their first win like a Lombardi Trophy came with it, but a win over a competent team could prove more meaningful. Still, they get kudos for proving they aren’t on the sleepwalking Giants level.