49ers Crumble in the Fourth Quarter, Dropped by Eagles 40-26

After a 40-26 loss to Philadelphia on Sunday, San Francisco (2-4) has lost three straight and sits in the unenviable position of needing to win at the New York Giants to halt its losing streak. The 49ers took a 26-17 lead into the fourth quarter against the Eagles, but surrendered 23 points in the final quarter. San Francisco’s defense failed again miserably to slow down an opponent’s offensive attack. Last year, the 49ers’ defense played solid, while the offense struggled. It seems this year; those two units have switched roles, as San Francisco’s defense can’t hold any lead its offense provides them.

The 49ers have yet to put together four quarters of good football and against the Eagles, they fell one quarter short. Once the fourth quarter arrived, the team’s offense and defense fell apart. Quarterback J.T. O’Sullivan threw two interceptions and lost a fumble, while the team’s defense gave up a touchdown and three field goals by David Akers. Philadelphia’s Juqua Parker returned O’Sullivan’s second touchdown for a 55-yard touchdown. O’Sullivan attempted a quick slant to receiver Isaac Bruce, but didn’t see Parker. Bruce had no idea, his head turned, as he sprinted up the field.

Down most of the first half, the 49ers blocked an Akers field goal attempt with few seconds left in the second quarter. Donald Strickland scooped up the ball – went in for the touchdown to cut the Eagles’ lead to 17-16. The block surprised, stole away Philadelphia’s momentum and appeared to be a turning point in the 49ers’ season. The team rushed off the field amid thunderous applause and good feelings.

After a third quarter Frank Gore touchdown and Joe Nedney field goal, the 49ers seemed poised to notch an important victory. But, for some reason, offensive coordinator Mike Martz went away from Gore in the fourth quarter as the running back had only two carries in the quarter. O’Sullivan folded, two curious Martz play calls went south and the 49ers’ defense couldn’t stop the run or pass, which all added up to a Philadelphia victory.

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With a lead in the fourth quarter, one would think the 49ers would want to pound the ball with Gore and work the clock. No, on two different third downs, Martz decided on a pass to tight end Vernon Davis in the flat and an end around to Delanie Walker, which lost seven and 10 yards, respectively. Gore ended the day with 101 yards and one touchdown. A game in the hands of the high-risk, erratic and inexperienced O’Sullivan isn’t where the 49ers want to be.

Head coach Mike Nolan displayed again his lack of understanding in regards to the league’s challenge system. He decided not to question a clear non-catch by Eagles’ receiver Hank Basket, but challenged an easy catch by DeSean Jackson. While this may appear to be a small point, it just illustrates that Nolan is lost and isn’t a fit game manger.

On the positive side, Davis had his best game of the year with six catches for 75 yards. He’s turned into an outstanding blocker, dangerous after the catch, but still yet to master his routes. If the 49ers can incorporate Davis, he’d provide another element to the team’s offense.

With a road date against the New York Giants next, the 49ers stare at the realistic possibility of a four-game skid, which would put the future of Nolan in dire straits.

By Jim Bucci
ProFootball-fans.com San Francisco 49ers Correspondent