On Sunday, the 49ers made history – the bad kind.
In losing 33-10 to the Eagles in Philadelphia, San Francisco fell to 0-8, the first time a Niners team has started a season with eight consecutive losses.
It was ugly all around, with rookie quarterback C.J. Beathard throwing two interceptions — one returned for a touchdown — while also being sacked four times and being hit hard often. The 49ers offense rushed for just 94 yards, converted only 3-of-15 third-down plays and fell behind 20-0 before finally scoring in the third quarter.
In the process the already injury-ravaged team lost two offensive tackles — including veteran Pro Bowler Joe Staley (with an eye injury) — as well as No. 1 pick Solomon Thomas (knee), wideout Pierre Garcon (neck) and safety Jimmie Ward (fractured forearm). The 49ers also scratched rookie linebacker Reuben Foster before the game.
Staley, a mainstay of the 49ers offense, was reported to have been taken to a hospital in Philadelphia. He was being checked for a possible fractured orbital bone and may need stitches around his eye, reported Matt Barrows of the Sacramento Bee.
Beathard was 17-of-36 for 167 yards and one touchdown (to Matt Breida) and the two interceptions, and also was the team’s leading rusher with 40 yards on six carries. No. 1 back Carlos Hyde could manage just 25 yards on 12 carries behind a makeshift offensive line.
The Eagles improved to 7-1 as second-year quarterback Carson Wentz threw for 211 yards and two TDs.
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The 49ers — one of the NFL’s two winless teams (along with the Browns) — will try to get their first win under rookie head coach Kyle Shanahan this coming Sunday against the visiting Arizona Cardinals.
