Grading the 49ers vs. Broncos, Oct. 19

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Offense

Colin Kaepernick had highlight-reel completions, but two critical mistakes. His interception was a head-scratcher: a forced throw over the middle to well-covered Stevie Johnson. He overthrew Brandon Lloyd on a potential 71-yard TD. Four drops didn’t help (including Anquan Boldin dropping a would-be TD). The running game (62 yards) was a rumor.

Defense

Sorry, we can’t grade on the curve even though this wasn’t a fair fight. Peyton Manning predictably torched an injury-riddled secondary that allowed completions of 49, 40 (TD), 39 (TD) and 32 yards. The 49ers had two sacks, but, overall, failed to generate consistent pressure against Manning, which is a recipe for the disaster that unfolded.

Special teams

Phil Dawson’s long-range feats have spoiled fans, so his first-quarter miss from 51 yards came as a mild shock (he had been 4-of-4 from 50-plus). Andy Lee quietly had a brilliant performance: He had a 50-yard net average (54.4 gross) on five punts, with a 71-yarder. Rookie Bruce Ellington (1 punt return, 4 yards) has yet to make an impact.

Coaching

DENVER, CO - OCTOBER 19: Quarterback Colin Kaepernick #7 of the San Francisco 49ers rushes against the Denver Broncos during a game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High on October 19, 2014 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images) less DENVER, CO - OCTOBER 19: Quarterback Colin Kaepernick #7 of the San Francisco 49ers rushes against the Denver Broncos during a game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High on October 19, 2014 in Denver, ... more Photo: Justin Edmonds / Getty Images Photo: Justin Edmonds / Getty Images Image 1 of / 1 Caption Close Grading the 49ers vs. Broncos, Oct. 19 1 / 1 Back to Gallery

Not that it would have mattered, but the 49ers would have been better served to commit to playing a power-running game of keep-away against Manning. Instead, they used plenty of four- and five-WR formations and completely ditched the ground game after falling behind early. Getting into a shootout with Manning in Denver? Not advised.

Overall

The sky isn’t falling, even after a 25-point beating. The injury-riddled 49ers were playing on a short week against a tough team in a difficult environment. Still, it’s surprising they didn’t offer more resistance.

—Eric Branch