LANDOVER, Md. – Coach Kyle Shanahan targeted Brian Hoyer to be his quarterback on the first day of free agency.
On Sunday, Shanahan felt as if he had no choice but to officially admit his mistake. And the 49ers saw an immediate improvement in the play of their struggling offense.
Rookie C.J. Beathard took over for Hoyer, who was benched in the second quarter after another poor performance, and helped the 49ers rally from a 17-point deficit.
But it ended up being the same old story for the winless 49ers, falling short in their comeback attempt Sunday with a 26-24 loss to Washington at FedEx Field.
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LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 31: Marquise Goodwin #11 of the San Francisco 49ers scores a touchdown during the first quarter against Brandon Allen #8 of the Los Angeles Rams at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on December 31, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)
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LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 31: Jimmy Garoppolo #10 of the San Francisco 49ers looks to pass during the first half of a game against the Los Angeles Rams at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on December 31, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
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LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 31: Carlos Hyde #28 of the San Francisco 49ers breaks a tackle by Samson Ebukam #50 of the Los Angeles Rams during the first half of a game at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on December 31, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
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LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 31: Kyle Juszczyk #44 of the San Francisco 49ers its tackled by Troy Hill #32 of the Los Angeles Rams after catching a pass during the first quarter at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on December 31, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)
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LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 31: Marquise Goodwin #11 of the San Francisco 49ers scores a touchdown during the first quarter against Brandon Allen #8 of the Los Angeles Rams at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on December 31, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)
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LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 31: Marquise Goodwin #11 of the San Francisco 49ers is carted off the field after after being injured on a play involving Blake Countess #24 of the Los Angeles Rams during the first half of a game at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on December 31, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
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LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 31: George Kittle #85 of the San Francisco 49ers eludes John Johnson #43 of the Los Angeles Rams on a pass play during the first half of a game at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on December 31, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
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LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 31: Quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo #10 of the San Francisco 49ers throws a pass against Blake Countess #24 of the Los Angeles Rams during the second quarter at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on December 31, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)
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LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 31: Carlos Hyde #28 of the San Francisco 49ers rushes for a touchdown as Cory Littleton #58 and Bryce Hager #54 of the Los Angeles Rams defend during the first half of a game at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on December 31, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
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LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 31: Carlos Hyde #28 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates his touchdown against Los Angeles Rams during the second quarter at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on December 31, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - DECEMBER 17: Jimmy Garoppolo #10 of the San Francisco 49ers throws a pass against the Tennessee Titans during their NFL football game at Levi's Stadium on December 17, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - DECEMBER 17: Marcus Mariota #8 of the Tennessee Titans throws a pass against the San Francisco 49ers during their NFL football game at Levi's Stadium on December 17, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - DECEMBER 17: Marquise Goodwin #11 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates after catching a pass for a first down against the Tennessee Titans during their NFL football game at Levi's Stadium on December 17, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - DECEMBER 17: Quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo #10 of the San Francisco 49ers passes against the Tennessee Titans during the first quarter at Levi's Stadium on December 17, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Jason O. Watson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - DECEMBER 17: Defensive back K'Waun Williams #24 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates after his team recovered a fumble against the Tennessee Titans during the second quarter at Levi's Stadium on December 17, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Jason O. Watson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - DECEMBER 17: Tight end Garrett Celek #88 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Tennessee Titans during the second quarter at Levi's Stadium on December 17, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Jason O. Watson/Getty Images)
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HOUSTON, TX - DECEMBER 10: Tom Savage #3 of the Houston Texans avoids a tackle by DeForest Buckner #99 of the San Francisco 49ers in the first quarter at NRG Stadium on December 10, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images)
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HOUSTON, TX - DECEMBER 10: Jimmy Garoppolo #10 of the San Francisco 49ers throws a pass pressured by Jadeveon Clowney #90 of the Houston Texans in the first quarter at NRG Stadium on December 10, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images)
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HOUSTON, TX - DECEMBER 10: DeAndre Hopkins #10 of the Houston Texans catches a pass for a touchdown defended by Eric Reid #35 of the San Francisco 49ers in the second quarter at NRG Stadium on December 10, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images)
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HOUSTON, TX - DECEMBER 10: Tom Savage #3 of the Houston Texans is hit by Elvis Dumervil #58 of the San Francisco 49ers in the second quarter at NRG Stadium on December 10, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images)
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HOUSTON, TX - DECEMBER 10: Robbie Gould #9 of the San Francisco 49ers reacts after a field goal attempt in the second quarter against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium on December 10, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images)
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HOUSTON, TX - DECEMBER 10: Garrett Celek #88 of the San Francisco 49ers catches a touchdown pass defended by Kevin Johnson #30 of the Houston Texans in the third quarter at NRG Stadium on December 10, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images)
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HOUSTON, TX - DECEMBER 10: DeAndre Hopkins #10 of the Houston Texans catches a touchdown pass defended by Dontae Johnson #36 of the San Francisco 49ers in the third quarter at NRG Stadium on December 10, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images)
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CHICAGO, IL - DECEMBER 03: Quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo #10 of the San Francisco 49ers warms up prior to the game against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on December 3, 2017 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Kena Krutsinger/Getty Images)
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CHICAGO, IL - DECEMBER 03: Matt Breida #22 of the San Francisco 49ers carries the football past Eddie Goldman #91 of the Chicago Bears in the first quarter at Soldier Field on December 3, 2017 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
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CHICAGO, IL - DECEMBER 03: Quarterback Mitchell Trubisky #10 of the Chicago Bears is sacked by Elvis Dumervil #58 of the San Francisco 49ers in the first quarter at Soldier Field on December 3, 2017 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
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CHICAGO, IL - DECEMBER 03: Quarterback Mitchell Trubisky #10 of the Chicago Bears looks to pass the football in the first quarter against the San Francisco 49ers at Soldier Field on December 3, 2017 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
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CHICAGO, IL - DECEMBER 03: Tarik Cohen #29 of the Chicago Bears carries a punt return toward the endzone, resulting in a touchdown in the second quarter against the San Francisco 49ers at Soldier Field on December 3, 2017 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
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CHICAGO, IL - DECEMBER 03: Carlos Hyde #28 of the San Francisco 49ers carries the football in the first quarter against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on December 3, 2017 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
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CHICAGO, IL - DECEMBER 03: Quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo #10 of the San Francisco 49ers is pushed out of bounds by Roy Robertson-Harris #95 of the Chicago Bears in the first quarter at Soldier Field on December 3, 2017 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
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CHICAGO, IL - DECEMBER 03: Quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo #10 of the San Francisco 49ers looks to pass the football in the first quarter against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on December 3, 2017 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
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CHICAGO, IL - DECEMBER 03: Robbie Gould #9 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates kicking the game winning field goal as Marcus Cooper #31 of the Chicago Bears leaves the field at Soldier Field on December 3, 2017 in Chicago, Illinois. The 49ers defetaed the Bears 15-14. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
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CHICAGO, IL - DECEMBER 03: Quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo #10 of the San Francisco 49ers reacts after the 49ers defeated the Chicago Bears 15-14 at Soldier Field on December 3, 2017 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 26: Eric Reid #35 and Brock Coyle #50 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrate after Reid intercepted a pass against the Seattle Seahawks at Levi's Stadium on November 26, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 26: Quarterback Russell Wilson #75 of the Seattle Seahawks runs with the ball against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi's Stadium on November 26, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 26: Ahkello Witherspoon #23 of the San Francisco 49ers breaks up the pass to Tyler Lockett #16 of the Seattle Seahawks during their NFL football game at Levi's Stadium on November 26, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 26: Russell Wilson #3 of the Seattle Seahawks scores on a 2-yard touchdown run against the San Francisco 49ers during their NFL football game at Levi's Stadium on November 26, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 26: Carlos Hyde #28 of the San Francisco 49ers gets tripped up by Bradley McDougald #30 of the Seattle Seahawks during their NFL football game at Levi's Stadium on November 26, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 26: C.J. Beathard #3 of the San Francisco 49ers gets his pass off under pressure from Bobby Wagner #54 of the Seattle Seahawks during their NFL football game at Levi's Stadium on November 26, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 12: Marquise Goodwin #11 of the San Francisco 49ers makes a catch on his way to against the New York Giants83-yard touchdown against the New York Giants during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on November 12, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 12: Adrian Colbert #38 of the San Francisco 49ers tackles Tavarres King #12 of the New York Giants during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on November 12, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 12: Carlos Hyde #28 of the San Francisco 49ers is tackled by Olivier Vernon #54 of the New York Giants during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on November 12, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 12: Carlos Hyde #28 of the San Francisco 49ers is tackled by Damon Harrison #98 and Olivier Vernon #54 of the New York Giants during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on November 12, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 12: Shane Vereen #34 of the New York Giants is tackled by Reuben Foster #56 of the San Francisco 49ers during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on November 12, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 12: Matt Breida #22 of the San Francisco 49ers hurdles players during their NFL game against the New York Giants at Levi's Stadium on November 12, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 12: Garrett Celek #88 of the San Francisco 49ers breaks a tackle on way to a 47-yard touchdown against the New York Giants during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on November 12, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 12: Garrett Celek #88 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates after a 47-yard touchdown against the New York Giants during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on November 12, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 12: Matt Breida #22 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates with C.J. Beathard #3 after a 22-yard touchdown against the New York Giants during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on November 12, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 05: Adrian Peterson #23 of the Arizona Cardinals rushes with the ball against the San Francisco 49ers during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on November 5, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 05: Jaron Brown #13 of the Arizona Cardinals catches a pass for a touchdown against the San Francisco 49ers during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on November 5, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 05: Jimmy Garoppolo #10 of the San Francisco 49ers warms up prior to their game against the Arizona Cardinals at Levi's Stadium on November 5, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 05: C.J. Beathard #3 of the San Francisco 49ers looks to pass against the Arizona Cardinals during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on November 5, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 05: C.J. Beathard #3 of the San Francisco 49ers is hit by Olsen Pierre #72 of the Arizona Cardinals during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on November 5, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 05: J.J. Nelson #14 of the Arizona Cardinals makes a catch in front of Dontae Johnson #36 of the San Francisco 49ers during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on November 5, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 05: Kyle Juszczyk #44 of the San Francisco 49ers helps up C.J. Beathard #3 after a play against the Arizona Cardinals during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on November 5, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 05: C.J. Beathard #3 of the San Francisco 49ers steps out of bounds at the one-yard line during their NFL game against the Arizona Cardinals at Levi's Stadium on November 5, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 05: Carlos Hyde #28 of the San Francisco 49ers breaks a tackle by Corey Peters #98 of the Arizona Cardinals during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on November 5, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 05: C.J. Beathard #3 of the San Francisco 49ers is hit as he throws by Corey Peters #98 of the Arizona Cardinals during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on November 5, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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PHILADELPHIA, PA - OCTOBER 29: C.J. Beathard #3 of the San Francisco 49ers tries to tackle Jalen Mills #31 of the Philadelphia Eagles after Mills intercepted his pass and ran it in for a touchdown in the second quarter on October 29, 2017 at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
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PHILADELPHIA, PA - OCTOBER 29: C.J. Beathard #3 of the San Francisco 49ers is sacked by Fletcher Cox #91 of the Philadelphia Eagles in the second quarter during their game at Lincoln Financial Field on October 29, 2017 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images)
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PHILADELPHIA, PA - OCTOBER 29: C.J. Beathard #3 of the San Francisco 49ers is tackled for no gain by the Philadelphia Eagles after trying to covert on third down in the third quarter during their game at Lincoln Financial Field on October 29, 2017 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images)
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PHILADELPHIA, PA - OCTOBER 29: Matt Breida #22 of the San Francisco 49ers scores a 21 yard touchdown against the Philadelphia Eagles in the third quarter during their game at Lincoln Financial Field on October 29, 2017 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images)
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PHILADELPHIA, PA - OCTOBER 29: C.J. Beathard #3 of the San Francisco 49ers passes in the first quarter against the Philadelphia Eagles on October 29, 2017 at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
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PHILADELPHIA, PA - OCTOBER 29: Garrett Celek #88 of the San Francisco 49ers makes the catch as Nigel Bradham #53 of the Philadelphia Eagles tackles in the first quarter on October 29, 2017 at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
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PHILADELPHIA, PA - OCTOBER 29: Kenjon Barner #38 of the Philadelphia Eagles carries the ball as Dontae Johnson #36 of the San Francisco 49ers defends on October 29, 2017 at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
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PHILADELPHIA, PA - OCTOBER 29: Zach Ertz #86 of the Philadelphia Eagles carries the ball as Brock Coyle #50 of the San Francisco 49ers defends in the first quarter on October 29, 2017 at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - OCTOBER 22: C.J. Beathard #3 of the San Francisco 49ers is stripped of the ball by DeMarcus Lawrence #90 of the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on October 22, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - OCTOBER 22: Dez Bryant #88 of the Dallas Cowboys makes a catch against the San Francisco 49ers during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on October 22, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - OCTOBER 22: Ezekiel Elliott #21 of the Dallas Cowboys scores his second touchdown against the San Francisco 49ers during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on October 22, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - OCTOBER 22: Ezekiel Elliott #21 of the Dallas Cowboys rushes with the ball against the San Francisco 49ers during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on October 22, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - OCTOBER 22: Marquise Goodwin #11 of the San Francisco 49ers makes a catch against the Dallas Cowboys during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on October 22, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - OCTOBER 22: Ezekiel Elliott #21 of the Dallas Cowboys rushes with the ball against the San Francisco 49ers during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on October 22, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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LANDOVER, MD - OCTOBER 15: Chris Thompson #25 of the Washington Redskins runs for 49 yards after a catch to set up a field goal in the second quarter of a game against the San Francisco 49ers at FedEx Field on October 15, 2017 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
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LANDOVER, MD - OCTOBER 15: Wide receiver Josh Doctson #18 of the Washington Redskins scores a touchdown as he is tackled by free safety Jaquiski Tartt #29 of the San Francisco 49ers during the first quarter at FedExField on October 15, 2017 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
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LANDOVER, MD - OCTOBER 15: Running back Carlos Hyde #28 of the San Francisco 49ers is tackled by outside linebacker Preston Smith #94 of the Washington Redskins during the first half at FedExField on October 15, 2017 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
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LANDOVER, MD - OCTOBER 15: Quarterback Brian Hoyer #2 of the San Francisco 49ers is pressured by inside linebacker Mason Foster #54 of the Washington Redskins during the first quarter at FedExField on October 15, 2017 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
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LANDOVER, MD - OCTOBER 15: Tight end Garrett Celek #88 of the San Francisco 49ers is tackled by cornerback Quinton Dunbar #47 of the Washington Redskins during the first half at FedExField on October 15, 2017 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
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INDIANAPOLIS, IN - OCTOBER 08: Brian Hoyer #2 of the San Francisco 49ers hands the ball off to Carlos Hyde #28 of the San Francisco 49ers during the first quarter of the game between the Indianapolis Colts and the San Francisco 49ers at Lucas Oil Stadium on October 8, 2017 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Bobby Ellis/Getty Images)
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INDIANAPOLIS, IN - OCTOBER 08: Brian Hoyer #2 of the San Francisco 49ers drops back to pass during first quarter of the game between the Indianapolis Colts and the San Francisco 49ers at Lucas Oil Stadium on October 8, 2017 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Bobby Ellis/Getty Images)
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INDIANAPOLIS, IN - OCTOBER 08: Darrell Daniels #47 of the Indianapolis Colts is pushed out of bounds by NaVorro Bowman #53 of the San Francisco 49ers during the second quarter of a game at Lucas Oil Stadium on October 8, 2017 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
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INDIANAPOLIS, IN - OCTOBER 08: Brian Hoyer #2 of the San Francisco 49ers dives for a fumble during the first quarter of a game against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium on October 8, 2017 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
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INDIANAPOLIS, IN - OCTOBER 08: Jacoby Brissett #7 of the Indianapolis Colts runs with the ball during the second quarter of the game between the Indianapolis Colts and the San Francisco 49ers at Lucas Oil Stadium on October 8, 2017 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Bobby Ellis/Getty Images)
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INDIANAPOLIS, IN - OCTOBER 08: T.Y. Hilton #13 of the Indianapolis Colts catches a pass in front of K'Waun Williams #24 of the San Francisco 49ers during the first quarter of a game at Lucas Oil Stadium on October 8, 2017 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
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GLENDALE, AZ - OCTOBER 01: Wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald #11 of the Arizona Cardinals makes the game winning catch in the end zone during overtime in the NFL game against the San Francisco 49ers at the University of Phoenix Stadium on October 1, 2017 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Norm Hall/Getty Images)
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GLENDALE, AZ - OCTOBER 01: Members of the San Francisco 49ers kneel for the National Anthem before the start of the NFL game against the Arizona Cardinals at the University of Phoenix Stadium on October 1, 2017 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
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GLENDALE, AZ - OCTOBER 01: Wide receiver Jaron Brown #13 of the Arizona Cardinals is hit by cornerback Jimmie Ward #25 and cornerback Dontae Johnson #36 of the San Francisco 49ers during the first half of the NFL game at the University of Phoenix Stadium on October 1, 2017 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Norm Hall/Getty Images)
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GLENDALE, AZ - OCTOBER 01: Middle linebacker NaVorro Bowman #53 of the San Francisco 49ers hits running back Chris Johnson #23 of the Arizona Cardinals during the first half of the NFL game at the University of Phoenix Stadium on October 1, 2017 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
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GLENDALE, AZ - OCTOBER 01: Quarterback Brian Hoyer #2 of the San Francisco 49ers throws a pass during the first half of the NFL game against the Arizona Cardinals at the University of Phoenix Stadium on October 1, 2017 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
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GLENDALE, AZ - OCTOBER 01: Running back Carlos Hyde #28 of the San Francisco 49ers runs past defensive end Frostee Rucker #92 of the Arizona Cardinals during the first half of the NFL game at the University of Phoenix Stadium on October 1, 2017 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
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GLENDALE, AZ - OCTOBER 01: Wide receiver John Brown #12 of the Arizona Cardinals can't make a catch under pressure from cornerback Rashard Robinson #33 of the San Francisco 49ers during the first half of the NFL game at the University of Phoenix Stadium on October 1, 2017 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
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GLENDALE, AZ - OCTOBER 01: Defensive end Aaron Lynch #59 of the San Francisco 49ers hits quarterback Carson Palmer #3 of the Arizona Cardinals during the first half of the NFL game at the University of Phoenix Stadium on October 1, 2017 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Norm Hall/Getty Images)
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GLENDALE, AZ - OCTOBER 01: Defensive tackle DeForest Buckner #99 of the San Francisco 49ers hits quarterback Carson Palmer #3 of the Arizona Cardinals during the second half of the NFL game at the University of Phoenix Stadium on October 1, 2017 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Norm Hall/Getty Images)
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GLENDALE, AZ - OCTOBER 01: Kicker Robbie Gould #9 of the San Francisco 49ers reacts with punter Bradley Pinion #5 after kicking a second quarter field goal during the NFL game against the Arizona Cardinals at the University of Phoenix Stadium on October 1, 2017 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - SEPTEMBER 21: Brian Hoyer #2 of the San Francisco 49ers looks to pass against the Los Angeles Rams during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on September 21, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - SEPTEMBER 21: Brian Hoyer #2 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates after rushing for a touchdown in the first quarter against the Los Angeles Rams at Levi's Stadium on September 21, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - SEPTEMBER 21: Brian Hoyer #2 of the San Francisco 49ers attempts a pass against the Los Angeles Rams during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on September 21, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - SEPTEMBER 21: Matt Breida #22 of the San Francisco 49ers rushes with the ball against the Los Angeles Rams during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on September 21, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SEATTLE, WA - SEPTEMBER 17: Kicker Blair Walsh #7 of the Seattle Seahawks makes a 25 yard field goal in the first quarter of the game against the San Francisco 49ers at CenturyLink Field on September 17, 2017 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Stephen Brashear/Getty Images)
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SEATTLE, WA - SEPTEMBER 17: Tight end Jimmy Graham #88 of the Seattle Seahawks drops the ball while being tackled by safety Jaquiski Tartt #29 of the San Francisco 49ers in the first quarter of the game at CenturyLink Field on September 17, 2017 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Stephen Brashear/Getty Images)
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SEATTLE, WA - SEPTEMBER 17: Wide receiver Tanner McEvoy #19 of the Seattle Seahawks can't bring in a pass against cornerback K'Waun Williams #24 and safety Jaquiski Tartt #29 of the San Francisco 49ers in the first quarter during the game at CenturyLink Field on September 17, 2017 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr /Getty Images)
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SEATTLE, WA - SEPTEMBER 17: Running back Carlos Hyde #28 of the San Francisco 49ers fends off linebacker K.J. Wright #50 of the Seattle Seahawks during the second quarter game at CenturyLink Field on September 17, 2017 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images)
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SEATTLE, WA - SEPTEMBER 17: Defensive end Frank Clark #55 of the Seattle Seahawks sacks quarterback Brian Hoyer #2 of the San Francisco 49ers for a loss of 6 yards during the third quarter of the game at CenturyLink Field on September 17, 2017 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Stephen Brashear/Getty Images)
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SEATTLE, WA - SEPTEMBER 17: Quarterback Brian Hoyer #2 of the San Francisco 49ers is tackled by defensive end Michael Bennett #72 of the Seattle Seahawks during the second quarter of the game at CenturyLink Field on September 17, 2017 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images)
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SEATTLE, WA - SEPTEMBER 17: Kicker Robbie Gould #9 of the San Francisco 49ers scores a 37 yard field goal past the defense of cornerback Jeremy Lane #20 of the Seattle Seahawks and defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson #91 during the second quarter of the game at CenturyLink Field on September 17, 2017 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Stephen Brashear/Getty Images)
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SEATTLE, WA - SEPTEMBER 17: Quarterback Brian Hoyer #2 of the San Francisco 49ers passes downfield against the Seattle Seahawks during the third quarter of the game at CenturyLink Field on September 17, 2017 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Stephen Brashear/Getty Images)
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SEATTLE, WA - SEPTEMBER 17: Running back Carlos Hyde #28 of the San Francisco 49ers is taken down by middle linebacker Bobby Wagner #54 of the Seattle Seahawks and linebacker Michael Wilhoite #57 during the third quarter of the game at CenturyLink Field on September 17, 2017 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - SEPTEMBER 10: Trent Taylor #81 of the San Francisco 49ers is forced out of bounds on a punt return against the Carolina Panthers at Levi's Stadium on September 10, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - SEPTEMBER 10: Jaquiski Tartt #29 of the San Francisco 49ers intercepts a pass intended for Kelvin Benjamin #13 of the Carolina Panthers during the second quarter of their NFL football game at Levi's Stadium on September 10, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - SEPTEMBER 10: Jaquiski Tartt #29 of the San Francisco 49ers intercepts the pass intended for Kelvin Benjamin #13 of the Carolina Panthers while Dontae Johnson #36 of the San Francisco 49ers was also covering him at Levi's Stadium on September 10, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - SEPTEMBER 10: Christian McCaffrey #22 of the Carolina Panthers runs with the ball against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi's Stadium on September 10, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - SEPTEMBER 10: Cam Newton #1 of the Carolina Panthers runs with the ball against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi's Stadium on September 10, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - SEPTEMBER 10: Brian Hoyer #2 of the San Francisco 49ers looks to throw a pass against the Carolina Panthers during the second quarter of their NFL football game at Levi's Stadium on September 10, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - SEPTEMBER 10: Julius Peppers #90 of the Carolina Panthers tackled Brian Hoyer #2 of the San Francisco 49ers at Levi's Stadium on September 10, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - SEPTEMBER 10: George Kittle #85 of the San Francisco 49ers gets tackled by Kurt Coleman #20 of the Carolina Panthers during the second quarter of their NFL football game at Levi's Stadium on September 10, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - SEPTEMBER 10: Christian McCaffrey #22 of the Carolina Panthers leaps over would be tackler K'Waun Williams #24 of the San Francisco 49ers during the second quarter of their NFL football game at Levi's Stadium on September 10, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - SEPTEMBER 10: Ed Dickson #84 of the Carolina Panthers gets tackled by Ray-Ray Armstrong #54 of the San Francisco 49ers during the second quarter of their NFL football game at Levi's Stadium on September 10, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - SEPTEMBER 10: Brian Hoyer #2 of the San Francisco 49ers throws a pass to George Kittle #85 against the Carolina Panthers during the second quarter of their NFL football game at Levi's Stadium on September 10, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
Hoyer completed just four of his 11 pass attempts for 34 yards to prompt Shanahan to make the call to the bullpen. Beathard completed 19 of 36 passes for 245 yards with one touchdown and one interception. Beathard did not attempt a pass in the 49ers’ first five games of the season.
The 49ers rallied from a 17-0 deficit to tie the game on Carlos Hyde’s second 1-yard scoring run of the day. The play was set up when Ray-Ray Armstrong stripped former 49ers tight end Vernon Davis after a short completion.
Safety Jimmie Ward scooped up the loose ball and returned it 43 yards to the 1. (The play was originally ruled a touchdown. After a review, referee John Parry announced Ward stepped out of bounds 1 ½ yards from the goal line.)
The 49ers entered the game with four consecutive losses by three points or left. The club was also playing its third road game in three weeks to cap a tumultuous week, which included the team’s decision to release veteran linebacker NaVorro Bowman on Friday.
Two days later, the 49ers moved on from another veteran player – the quarterback who was brought to the team to run Shanahan’s offense. Hoyer previously played under Shanahan while both men were with the Cleveland Browns in 2014.
But Hoyer could not find any consistency once the season began with the 49ers – his seventh team in nine NFL seasons.
Hoyer ranked near the bottom of nearly every passing category. He has completed 119 of 205 pass attempts (58 percent) for 1,245 yards with four touchdowns, four interceptions and a passer rating of 74.1.
Finally, Shanahan had seen enough.
Beathard appeared to provide the 49ers with a spark at the end of the first half after falling behind 17-0. The 49ers drove 75 yards in 11 plays and scored on Hyde’s 1-yard run on fourth down just before halftime.
Washington built a 17-point lead on Kirk Cousins’ two touchdown passes in the first half. Cousins completed 25 of 37 pass attempts for two touchdowns and one interception.
Washington took a 20-17 lead with 10:34 remaining in regulation on a short field goal after the 49ers’ defense stiffened near the goal line on good plays from Ward, Solomon Thomas and Dontae Johnson.
REID RETURNS: Safety Eric Reid returned to action after missing the past three games with a knee injury. But he did not step back into his starting role.
Jaquiski Tartt retained his starting role at strong safety. Reid entered the game when the 49ers went with six defensive backs, mostly in third-down situations.
THIS ‘N’ THAT: Rookie Solomon Thomas recorded his second sack of the season, throwing Cousins for a 5-yard loss in the second quarter.
--The 49ers lost two defensive starters due to injuries. Arik Armstead sustained a hand injury in the second quarter and did not return. Aaron Lynch left with a calf injury in the third quarter that occurred as he was chasing Cousins from the pocket.
--With Reuben Foster declared inactive, the 49ers started Brock Coyle at inside linebacker, alongside Ray-Ray Armstrong. Coyle took over calling the 49ers’ defensive signals in the huddle.
--Robbie Gould made a 52-yard field goal in the third quarter to pull the 49ers to within 17-10. It was the 32nd consecutive made field goal for Gould, dating back to the 2015 season. But Gould’s streak ended on his next attempt, when he missed wide right from 47 yards.
--Rookie Trent Taylor busted a 39-yard punt return in the third quarter to set the 49ers up at midfield on the drive that ended with Gould’s miss.
--One play after Ward’s interception was overturned on review, cornerback Rashard Robinson made an over-the-shoulder interception of a deep Cousins pass. It was the second interception of Robinson’s career.
--Seven members of the 49ers took a knee and held their hands over their chests during the playing of the national anthem in silent protest of racial inequality in America. Those players were Reid, Marquise Goodwin, Adrian Colbert, Dekoda Watson (inactive), Eli Harold, Armstead and K’Waun Williams.
