San Francisco

Niners' Big Night Turns Ugly

San Francisco loses big lead, can't stop Bears' fourth-quarter comeback to lose 28-20 in Levi's Stadium regular-season debut

It was all stacking up to be a beautiful night for the 49ers.

In the regular-season debut of Levi’s Stadium Sunday night, the Niners jumped out to a 17-0 lead and entered the fourth quarter leading 20-7. With a lead of 13 points or more going into the final period, San Francisco had won 37 straight.

Plus, the 49ers knew even before kickoff in the nationally televised game that the Seattle Seahawks had lost in San Diego, meaning a victory would give the 49ers a 2-0 record and the lead in the NFC West.

But in the fourth quarter, everything unraveled.

The Bears, who had scored a touchdown just before halftime to climb back into the game, scored three touchdowns in about nine minutes to take a 28-20 victory and spoil the Niners’ night.

Two of the scores came after the Bears intercepted Colin Kaepernick on back-to-back 49ers possessions. Wide receiver Brandon Marshall scored two of the TDs on short passes from Jay Cutler and had three for the night, including a spectacular one-handed 17-yard grab just before halftime.

The Niners had had one last chance to tie the game, but a drive into Bears territory ended on a failed fourth-down play with a little more than a minute remaining to end their hopes.

Kaepernick and the 49ers offense began the game on a roll, with San Francisco scoring a quick touchdown after rookie Aaron Lynch blocked a punt. And just like last week in a victory over the Cowboys, the 49ers jumped out to a big lead. Michael Crabtree and Frank Gore had touchdowns and Phil Dawson had a 27-yard field goal.

But Kaepernick soon lost his magic. He lost a fumble while being sacked and wound up throwing three interceptions. And the 49ers committed numerous mistakes, being flagged for almost as many yards in penalties (118) as they had rushing yards (129).

Now 1-1, the 49ers will try to get back on track against the Cardinals iin Week 3.

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