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21h ago

49ers' Ground Game Hits NFC Low With No Rushing TD Through Four Games

Kyle Shanahan says breaking a big run would jump-start a stalled ground game.

49ers quarterback Brock Purdy scrambles for a first down in the first half, one of his two carries in the game, in a 26-21 loss Sunday to the Jacksonville Jaguars at Levi’s Stadium.
Christian McCaffrey of the San Francisco 49ers fumbles during the third quarter against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Levi’s Stadium on Sept. 28, 2025, in Santa Clara, Calif.
49ers running back Christian McCaffrey managed 49 yards on 17 carries Sunday in a 26-21 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars at Levi’s Stadium.
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Overview

  • The 26-21 loss to Jacksonville underscored the issue as San Francisco managed 83 rushing yards, with Christian McCaffrey held to 49 yards on 17 carries.
  • Through four games the 49ers rank last in the NFC at 88.0 rushing yards per game and 3.3 yards per carry, and they are the NFL’s only team without a rushing touchdown.
  • Explosive runs are absent, with no gains of 20-plus yards, and McCaffrey has produced more as a receiver than a runner so far this season.
  • Coaches point to injuries to key pass catchers, perimeter and interior blocking lapses, and offensive-line issues, including right guard Dominick Puni’s struggles.
  • Red-zone rushing has stalled at 16 carries for 10 yards, the defense is on an 11-game streak without an interception, and a Thursday trip to the Rams presents a tougher run-defense test.