The San Francisco 49ers jumped out to a 14-0 lead over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but things changed quickly after that. The second, third and fourth quarters belonged to the Bucs, with Tampa Bay going on a 34-3 run to end the game and win 34-17. The Bucs improve to 3-3 with the win, while the 49ers are 1-6.
Here's what we learned from the 49ers' 34-17 loss to the Bucs.
3. Colin Kaepernick Shows Flashes, But It's Not Enough
On another team, say the 2012 or 2013 49ers, Kaepernick's play would be enough to push for a playoff spot. But on this 49ers, devoid of talent (see below), it's not enough. Kaepernick shows flashes, such as his impressive 17-yard TD throw to Shaun Draughn, or his 84 yards on nine carries. But he still finished the day 16 of 34 for just 143 yards, a TD and an INT. Kaepernick is still a solid fit in Chip Kelly's system, but he is just not able to carry this team. The 49ers' best options right now (with Carlos Hyde also hurt), are guys like Mike Davis, Torrey Smith (who only runs go routes it seems) and Jeremy Kerley. So, yeah, Kaepernick isn't good enough to get it done with these guys.
2. The Bucs Needed That, Still Have Work To Do
Entering the game at 2-3, this was essentially a must-win game for the Bucs. They fell behind 14-0 early and although that might have worried the fan base, the team itself looking fine. It was all Bucs after that, despite Jameis Wintson not having a ton of options outside of Mike Evans. Their star WR had a monster game, after briefly leaving following a massive hit. Winston struggled early, but did finish with 242 yards, 3 TDs and a pick. The Bucs are still a young team with room to grow, but the potential is there.
1. The 49ers Are Bad
After seven games, it's clear the 49ers 28-0 win over the Rams was a fluke. This team is simply not good. It's not Chip Kelly's fault, as he's working with a weak deck. It might be time to dump Trent Baalke, because years of taking injured players has not paid off. The retirements a few years ago still hurt the team, but that doesn't excuse a 1-6 mark. There's a rebuild underway in San Francisco, and it might take a little bit. Perhaps the 49ers can find a new franchise QB near the top of the next year.