Defense Dominated on Key Downs
Defensive coordinator Robert Saleh’s unit held Cleveland out of the end zone after the first quarter and consistently shut down the run with contributions from Malik Mustapha, Ji’Ayir Brown, Jordan Elliott, and Curtis Robinson. One of the defining sequences came on a fourth-and-one stop in 49ers territory, where Mustapha and Elliott combined to drive the Browns runner for a loss. Linemen Keion White and Ferrell added timely sacks, and the Browns final possessions repeatedly ended with punts, sacks, or turnover-on-downs attempts that the 49ers capitalized on.
Special Teams Creates Explosive Plays
San Francisco’s special teams unit delivered game-changing moments that shaped the afternoon. Moore’s 66-yard punt return in the first quarter set up the opening touchdown and gave the 49ers early momentum. In the fourth quarter, Darrell Luter Jr. recovered a muffed punt at Cleveland’s 18 yard-line, setting up Jennings’ touchdown. Kicker Matt Gay remained reliable, converting field goals from 25 and 31 yards to extend the lead.
Next up, the 49ers head into their Bye Week before returning home to host the Tennessee Titans on Sunday, December 14 at Levi’s® Stadium.