TAMPA — Reuben Foster’s arrest and subsequent release Sunday morning set the tone for the 49ers’ dismal day, culminating with a 27-9 loss to the almost-as-uninspiring Buccaneers.
Foster, arrested for domestic violence Saturday night, wasn’t noticeably missed on a 49ers defense that remains most vulnerable against the pass.
Meanwhile, the 49ers offense sputtered all game, doing so in Nick Mullens’ third career start and first on the road.
Mullens completed 18-of-32 passes for 221 yards with a touchdown, two interceptions and the first four sacks of his young career. Hindering his comeback bid were the absences of wide receivers Pierre Garcon and Marquise Goodwin, the latter of whom flew back home Saturday for a personal matter.