Defense Bullied by Bills, 49ers Lose Fifth Straight
By CSN Bay Area's Matt Maiocco ••
ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. – Colin Kaepernick’s return to the 49ers’ starting lineup for the first time in nearly a year seemingly helped provide the team’s offense with immediate benefits in the first half.
But there were still no answers – in either half - for the team’s leaky defense and horrendous tackling.
Despite a number of changes, including Kaepernick taking over for the struggling Blaine Gabbert, it was the same story for the 49ers on Sunday. The Buffalo Bills pulled away in the second half for a 45-16 victory to run their win streak to four games.
It was the fifth consecutive loss for the 49ers, who fall to 1-5 after opening the season with a 28-0 victory over the Los Angeles Rams.
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SANTA CLARA, CA - JANUARY 01: Colin Kaepernick #7 of the San Francisco 49ers runs in to the field for their game against the Seattle Seahawks at Levi's Stadium on January 1, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - JANUARY 01: Shaun Draughn #24 of the San Francisco 49ers is congratulated by Colin Kaepernick #7 of the San Francisco 49ers after he ran in for a touchdown against the Seattle Seahawks at Levi's Stadium on January 1, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - JANUARY 01: Colin Kaepernick #7 of the San Francisco 49ers throws the ball while pressured by Cliff Avril #56 of the Seattle Seahawks at Levi's Stadium on January 1, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - JANUARY 01: Shaun Draughn #24 of the San Francisco 49ers gets pushed out of bounds at the four yardline by Jeremy Lane #20 of the Seattle Seahawks during the first quarter of their NFL football game at Levi's Stadium on January 1, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - JANUARY 01: Jimmy Graham #88 of the Seattle Seahawks catches a pass while covered by Antoine Bethea #41 of the San Francisco 49ers at Levi's Stadium on January 1, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - JANUARY 01: Russell Wilson #3 of the Seattle Seahawks is pressured by Michael Wilhoite #57 of the San Francisco 49ers at Levi's Stadium on January 1, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 24: Rod Streater #81 and Colin Kaepernick #7 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrate after defeating the Los Angeles Rams 22-21 at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on December 24, 2016 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
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LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 24: Colin Kaepernick #7 of the San Francisco 49ers jumps into the end zone for a two point conversion during the fourth quarter against the Los Angeles Rams at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on December 24, 2016 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
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LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 24: Rod Streater #81 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates with teammates after scoring a touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Los Angeles Rams at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on December 24, 2016 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
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LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 24: Colin Kaepernick #7 of the San Francisco 49ers rushes for a 13-yard touchdown during the fourth quarter as Aaron Donald #99 and Alec Ogletree #52 of the Los Angeles Rams attempt to tackle him at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on December 24, 2016 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
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LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 24: Carlos Hyde #28 of the San Francisco 49ers carries the ball during the first half against the Los Angeles Rams at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on December 24, 2016 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
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LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 24: (EDITORS NOTE: Retransmission with alternate crop.) Todd Gurley #30 of the Los Angeles Rams is stopped short of the goal line by the San Francisco 49ers defense during the fourth quarter of their game at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on December 24, 2016 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
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LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 24: Ronald Blair #98 of the San Francisco 49ers sacks Jared Goff #16 of the Los Angeles Rams during the fourth quarter at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on December 24, 2016 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
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LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 24: Ahmad Brooks #55 of the San Francisco 49ers tackles Todd Gurley #30 of the Los Angeles Rams during the first half of their game at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on December 24, 2016 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
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ATLANTA, GA - DECEMBER 18: Michael Wilhoite #57 of the San Francisco 49ers tackles Devonta Freeman #24 of the Atlanta Falcons on a run play during the first half at the Georgia Dome on December 18, 2016 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
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ATLANTA, GA - DECEMBER 18: Matt Ryan #2 of the Atlanta Falcons slides past Eli Harold #58 of the San Francisco 49ers during the first half at the Georgia Dome on December 18, 2016 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
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ATLANTA, GA - DECEMBER 18: Devonta Freeman #24 of the Atlanta Falcons runs for a touchdown during the first half against the San Francisco 49ers at the Georgia Dome on December 18, 2016 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Scott Cunningham/Getty Images)
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ATLANTA, GA - DECEMBER 18: Devonta Freeman #24 of the Atlanta Falcons is upended by Jaquiski Tartt #29 of the San Francisco 49ers during the first half at the Georgia Dome on December 18, 2016 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
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ATLANTA, GA - DECEMBER 18: Colin Kaepernick #7 of the San Francisco 49ers passes under pressure during the first half against the Atlanta Falcons at the Georgia Dome on December 18, 2016 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
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ATLANTA, GA - DECEMBER 18: Tevin Coleman #26 of the Atlanta Falcons is tackled by Aaron Lynch #59 of the San Francisco 49ers during the first half at the Georgia Dome on December 18, 2016 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Scott Cunningham/Getty Images)
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ATLANTA, GA - DECEMBER 18: Colin Kaepernick #7 of the San Francisco 49ers scrambles on a pass play during the first half against the Atlanta Falcons at the Georgia Dome on December 18, 2016 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - DECEMBER 11: Carlos Hyde #28 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates with teammates after scoring against the New York Jets in the first quarter of their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on December 11, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - DECEMBER 11: Shaun Draughn #24 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates after scoring against the New York Jets during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on December 11, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - DECEMBER 11: Jimmie Ward #25 of the San Francisco 49ers intercepts a pass intended for Quincy Enunwa #81 of the New York Jets in the first quarter of their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on December 11, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - DECEMBER 11: Quinton Patton #11 of the San Francisco 49ers breaks a tackle by Darron Lee #50 of the New York Jets during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on December 11, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - DECEMBER 11: Colin Kaepernick #7 of the San Francisco 49ers breaks a tackle by Marcus Gilchrist #21 of the New York Jets during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on December 11, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - DECEMBER 11: Gerald Hodges #51 and Glenn Dorsey #90 of the San Francisco 49ers sack Bryce Petty #9 of the New York Jets during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on December 11, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - DECEMBER 11: Blake Bell #84 of the San Francisco 49ers is hit by Calvin Pryor #25 of the New York Jets during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on December 11, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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CHICAGO, IL - DECEMBER 04: Mitch Unrein #98 of the Chicago Bears chases down Colin Kaepernick #7 of the San Francisco 49ers at Soldier Field on December 4, 2016 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bears defeated the 49ers 26-6. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
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CHICAGO, IL - DECEMBER 04: Jeremy Kerley #17 of the San Francisco 49ers drops a pass against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on December 4, 2016 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bears defeated the 49ers 26-6. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
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CHICAGO, IL - DECEMBER 04: Quarterback Colin Kaepernick #7 of the San Francisco 49ers warms his hands in the third quarter against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on December 4, 2016 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
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CHICAGO, IL - DECEMBER 04: Quarterback Colin Kaepernick #7 of the San Francisco 49ers sits on the bench in the fourth quarter against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on December 4, 2016 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
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CHICAGO, IL - DECEMBER 04: The snow is pushed offsides of the field during the game between the Chicago Bears and the San Francisco 49ers at Soldier Field on December 4, 2016 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
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CHICAGO, IL - DECEMBER 04: Daniel Brown #85 of the Chicago Bears flys through the air in the third quarter against the San Francisco 49ers at Soldier Field on December 4, 2016 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
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MIAMI GARDENS, FL - NOVEMBER 27: Carlos Hyde #28 of the San Francisco 49ers scores a touchdown during a game against the Miami Dolphins on November 27, 2016 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)
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MIAMI GARDENS, FL - NOVEMBER 27: Colin Kaepernick #7 of the San Francisco 49ers passes during a game against the Miami Dolphins on November 27, 2016 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)
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MIAMI GARDENS, FL - NOVEMBER 27: Jay Ajayi #23 of the Miami Dolphins rushes during a game against the San Francisco 49ers on November 27, 2016 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)
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MIAMI GARDENS, FL - NOVEMBER 27: DeVante Parker #11 of the Miami Dolphins catches a pass out of bounds during a game against the San Francisco 49ers on November 27, 2016 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)
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MIAMI GARDENS, FL - NOVEMBER 27: Carlos Hyde #28 of the San Francisco 49ers rushes during the 2nd quarter against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium on November 27, 2016 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Eric Espada/Getty Images)
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MIAMI GARDENS, FL - NOVEMBER 27: Donald Butler #56 of the Miami Dolphins tackles Carlos Hyde #28 of the San Francisco 49ers during the 1st quarter of the game at Hard Rock Stadium on November 27, 2016 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Eric Espada/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 20: LeGarrette Blount #29 of the New England Patriots rushes against the San Francisco 49ers during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on November 20, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 20: Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots dives for a first down against the San Francisco 49ers during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on November 20, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 20: Garrett Celek #88 of the San Francisco 49ers is tackled by Shea McClellin #58 of the New England Patriots after a catch during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on November 20, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 20: Colin Kaepernick #7 of the San Francisco 49ers is sacked by Kyle Van Noy #53 of the New England Patriots during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on November 20, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 20: Vance McDonald #89 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates with Colin Kaepernick #7 after scoring against the New England Patriots on a 18-yard pass during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on November 20, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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GLENDALE, AZ - NOVEMBER 13: Cornerback Tramaine Brock #26 of the San Francisco 49ers can't tackle running back David Johnson #31 of the Arizona Cardinals during the second quarter of the NFL football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on November 13, 2016 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images)
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GLENDALE, AZ - NOVEMBER 13: Running back Carlos Hyde #28 of the San Francisco 49ers runs past cornerback Justin Bethel #28 of the Arizona Cardinals during the second quarter of the NFL football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on November 13, 2016 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images)
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GLENDALE, AZ - NOVEMBER 13: Head coach Chip Kelly of the San Francisco 49ers talks with quarterback Colin Kaepernick #7 during the second quarter of the NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium on November 13, 2016 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images)
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GLENDALE, AZ - NOVEMBER 13: Wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald #11 of the Arizona Cardinals is upended by cornerback Jimmie Ward #25 of the San Francisco 49ers and outside linebacker Eli Harold #58 during the second quarter of the NFL football game at University of Phoenix Stadium on November 13, 2016 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images)
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GLENDALE, AZ - NOVEMBER 13: Colin Kaepernick #7 and Blaine Gabbert #2 of the San Francisco 49ers warm up prior to a game against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium on November 13, 2016 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Norm Hall/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 06: Quarterback Colin Kaepernick #7 of the San Francisco 49ers passes against the New Orleans Saints during the first quarter at Levi's Stadium on November 6, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Jason O. Watson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 06: Wide receiver Quinton Patton #11 of the San Francisco 49ers breaks a tackle from free safety Jairus Byrd #31 of the New Orleans Saints during the first quarter at Levi's Stadium on November 6, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Jason O. Watson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 06: Running back Mark Ingram #22 of the New Orleans Saints scores a touchdown against the San Francisco 49ers during the second quarter at Levi's Stadium on November 6, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Jason O. Watson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 06: Running back Mark Ingram #22 of the New Orleans Saints scores a touchdown against the San Francisco 49ers during the second quarter at Levi's Stadium on November 6, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Jason O. Watson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 06: Running back DuJuan Harris #32 of the San Francisco 49ers scores a touchdown against the New Orleans Saints during the second quarter at Levi's Stadium on November 6, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Jason O. Watson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 06: Tight end Vance McDonald #89 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the New Orleans Saints during the second quarter at Levi's Stadium on November 6, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Jason O. Watson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - OCTOBER 23: Colin Kaepernick #7 of the San Francisco 49ers breaks a tackle during their NFL game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Levi's Stadium on October 23, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - OCTOBER 23: Shaun Draughn #24 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates after scoring on a 17-yard pass against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on October 23, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - OCTOBER 23: Vance McDonald #89 of the San Francisco 49ers is tackled after a catch against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on October 23, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - OCTOBER 23: Ryan Smith #29 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers rushes with the ball against the San Francisco 49ers during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on October 23, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - OCTOBER 23: Gerald Hodges #51 of the San Francisco 49ers jumps over teammate Rashard Robinson #33 and Russell Shepard #89 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on October 23, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - OCTOBER 23: Mike Evans #13 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers makes a five-yard touchdown catch against the San Francisco 49ers during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on October 23, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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BUFFALO, NY - OCTOBER 16: LeSean McCoy #25 of the Buffalo Bills runs against the San Francisco 49ers during the first half at New Era Field on October 16, 2016 in Buffalo, New York. (Photo by Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images)
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BUFFALO, NY - OCTOBER 16: Colin Kaepernick #7 of the San Francisco 49ers runs the ball against the Buffalo Bills during the first half at New Era Field on October 16, 2016 in Buffalo, New York. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images)
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BUFFALO, NY - OCTOBER 16: LeSean McCoy #25 of the Buffalo Bills breaks a tackle by Rashard Robinson #33 of the San Francisco 49ers for a touchdown during the first half at New Era Field on October 16, 2016 in Buffalo, New York. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images)
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BUFFALO, NY - OCTOBER 16: Torrey Smith #82 of the San Francisco 49ers breaks free of Aaron Williams #23 of the Buffalo Bills for a touchdown during the first half at New Era Field on October 16, 2016 in Buffalo, New York. (Photo by Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images)
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BUFFALO, NY - OCTOBER 16: Carlos Hyde #28 of the San Francisco 49ers is hit by Aaron Williams #23 of the Buffalo Bills and Corey Graham #20 of the Buffalo Bills during the first half at New Era Field on October 16, 2016 in Buffalo, New York. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images)
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BUFFALO, NY - OCTOBER 16: Tyrod Taylor #5 of the Buffalo Bills gets a pass off as Ahmad Brooks #55 of the San Francisco 49ers comes flying in during the first half at New Era Field on October 16, 2016 in Buffalo, New York. (Photo by Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images)
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BUFFALO, NY - OCTOBER 16: LeSean McCoy #25 of the Buffalo Bills drags Nick Bellore #50 of the San Francisco 49ers for extra yards during the second half at New Era Field on October 16, 2016 in Buffalo, New York. (Photo by Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - OCTOBER 02: Jeremy Kerley #17 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates after catching a touchdown pass against the Dallas Cowboys at Levi's Stadium on October 2, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SAN DIEGO, CA - SEPTEMBER 01: Colin Kaepernick #7 of the San Francisco 49ers rolls out of the pocket during a preseason game against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium on September 1, 2016 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
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ORCHARD PARK, NY - AUGUST 20: LeSean McCoy #25 of the Buffalo Bills celebrates a touchdown reception during the first half against the New York Giants on August 20, 2016 at New Era Field in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images)
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FOXBORO, MA - OCTOBER 2: Tyrod Taylor #5 of the Buffalo Bills looks to throw down field as he rolls out of the pocket in the third quarter against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium on October 2, 2016 in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - OCTOBER 06: Drew Stanton #5 of the Arizona Cardinals is sacked by Michael Wilhoite #57 of the San Francisco 49ers during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on October 6, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - OCTOBER 06: Alex Okafor #57 of the Arizona Cardinals tackles Carlos Hyde #28 of the San Francisco 49ers during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on October 6, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - OCTOBER 06: Blaine Gabbert #2 of the San Francisco 49ers runs with the ball against the Arizona Cardinals during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on October 6, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - SEPTEMBER 12: Todd Gurley #30 of the Los Angeles Rams rushes against the San Francisco 49ers during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on September 12, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - SEPTEMBER 12: NaVorro Bowman #53 of the San Francisco 49ers reacts after a play against the Los Angeles Rams during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on September 12, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - SEPTEMBER 12: Kenny Britt #18 of the Los Angeles Rams makes a catch against the San Francisco 49ers during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on September 12, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - SEPTEMBER 12: Head coach Chip Kelly of the San Francisco 49ers looks on from the sidelines during their NFL game against the Los Angeles Rams at Levi's Stadium on September 12, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - SEPTEMBER 12: Ray-Ray Armstrong #54 of the San Francisco 49ers reacts after intercepting a pass by Case Keenum #17 of the Los Angeles Rams during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on September 12, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - SEPTEMBER 12: Vance McDonald #89 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates with Joe Staley #74 after scoring during their NFL game against the Los Angeles Rams at Levi's Stadium on September 12, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - SEPTEMBER 12: Quinton Patton #11 of the San Francisco 49ers runs with the ball after a catch against the Los Angeles Rams during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on September 12, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - SEPTEMBER 12: Ray-Ray Armstrong #54 of the San Francisco 49ers reacts after intercepting a pass by Case Keenum #17 of the Los Angeles Rams during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on September 12, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - SEPTEMBER 12: Carlos Hyde #28 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates after scoring in the fourth quarter against the Los Angeles Rams during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on September 12, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - SEPTEMBER 12: Carlos Hyde #28 of the San Francisco 49ers rushes with the ball against the Los Angeles Rams during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on September 12, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - SEPTEMBER 12: The San Francisco 49ers celebrate a interception by NaVorro Bowman #53 against the Los Angeles Rams during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on September 12, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - SEPTEMBER 12: Carlos Hyde #28 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates after a touchdown against the Los Angeles Rams during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on September 12, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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CHARLOTTE, NC - SEPTEMBER 18: Vance McDonald #89 of the San Francisco 49ers scores a touchdown against the Carolina Panthers in the 4th quarter during the game at Bank of America Stadium on September 18, 2016 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images)
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CHARLOTTE, NC - SEPTEMBER 18: Tramaine Brock #26 of the San Francisco 49ers tries to break up a pass to Ted Ginn #19 of the Carolina Panthers during their game at Bank of America Stadium on September 18, 2016 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)
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CHARLOTTE, NC - SEPTEMBER 18: Blaine Gabbert #2 of the San Francisco 49ers runs for touchdown against the Carolina Panthers in the 4th quarter during their game at Bank of America Stadium on September 18, 2016 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)
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CHARLOTTE, NC - SEPTEMBER 18: Kelvin Benjamin #13 of the Carolina Panthers catches a pass against Jimmie Ward #25 of the San Francisco 49ers in the 3rd quarter during the game at Bank of America Stadium on September 18, 2016 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images)
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CHARLOTTE, NC - SEPTEMBER 18: Blaine Gabbert #2 of the San Francisco 49ers scrambles from Shaq Thompson #54 of the Carolina Panthers in the 2nd quarter during the game at Bank of America Stadium on September 18, 2016 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images)
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CHARLOTTE, NC - SEPTEMBER 18: Carlos Hyde #28 of the San Francisco 49ers runs the ball against the Carolina Panthers in the 2nd quarter during their game at Bank of America Stadium on September 18, 2016 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)
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CHARLOTTE, NC - SEPTEMBER 18: Blaine Gabbert #2 confers with head coach Chip Kelly of the San Francisco 49ers during the game against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium on September 18, 2016 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images)
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SEATTLE, WA - SEPTEMBER 25: Quarterback Blaine Gabbert #2 of the San Francisco 49ers passes the ball during the second quarter of the game against the Seattle Seahawks at CenturyLink Field on September 25, 2016 in Seattle,Washington. (Photo by Steve Dykes/Getty Images)
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SEATTLE, WA - SEPTEMBER 25: Tight end Jimmy Graham #88 of the Seattle Seahawks is brought down by inside linebacker NaVorro Bowman #53 and strong safety Antoine Bethea #41 of the San Francisco 49ers during the first quarter of the game at CenturyLink Field on September 25, 2016 in Seattle,Washington. (Photo by Steve Dykes/Getty Images)
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SEATTLE, WA - SEPTEMBER 25: Tight end Jimmy Graham #88 of the Seattle Seahawks grabs the ball away from free safety Eric Reid #35 of the San Francisco 49ers for a long gain during the second quarter of the game at CenturyLink Field on September 25, 2016 in Seattle,Washington. (Photo by Steve Dykes/Getty Images)
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EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - OCTOBER 11: Carlos Hyde #28 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates a touchdown in the fourth quarter during a game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium on October 11, 2015 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images)
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DENVER, CO - AUGUST 20: Quarterback Blaine Gabbert of the San Francisco 49ers throws a first quarter pass against the Denver Broncos during a preseason NFL game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High on August 20, 2016 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
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ARLINGTON, TX - SEPTEMBER 25: Ezekiel Elliott #21 of the Dallas Cowboys runs during the first quarter of a game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Chicago Bears at AT&T Stadium on September 25, 2016 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images)
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ARLINGTON, TX - SEPTEMBER 25: Dak Prescott #4 of the Dallas Cowboys throws during a game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Chicago Bears at AT&T Stadium on September 25, 2016 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - OCTOBER 02: Terrance Williams #83 of the Dallas Cowboys makes a leaping catch for a touchdown against Tramaine Brock #26 of the San Francisco 49ers during the second quarter at Levi's Stadium on October 2, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - OCTOBER 02: Center Daniel Kilgore #67 of the San Francisco 49ers prepares to snap the ball during the second quarter against the Dallas Cowboys at Levi's Stadium on October 2, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - OCTOBER 02: Jeremy Kerley #17 of the San Francisco 49ers crosses the goal line for a touchdown after catching a pass against the Dallas Cowboys at Levi's Stadium on October 2, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - OCTOBER 02: Carlos Hyde #28 of the San Francisco 49ers is tackled by Terrell McClain #97 of the Dallas Cowboys during the third quarter at Levi's Stadium on October 2, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - OCTOBER 02: Ezekiel Elliott #21 of the Dallas Cowboys crosses the goal line to score a rushing touchdown against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi's Stadium on October 2, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - OCTOBER 02: Jason Witten #82 of the Dallas Cowboys catches a pass against Antoine Bethea #41 of the San Francisco 49ers at Levi's Stadium on October 2, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SANTA CLARA, CA - OCTOBER 02: Carlos Hyde #28 of the San Francisco 49ers rushes during the third quarter against the Dallas Cowboys at Levi's Stadium on October 2, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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SAN DIEGO, CA - SEPTEMBER 01: Colin Kaepernick #7 of the San Francisco 49ers makes a pass on the run during a preseason game against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium on September 1, 2016 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
Kaepernick made his first start since Nov. 1, 2016, after which Gabbert replaced him as the starter. Gabbert started the 49ers’ final eight games of 2015 and the first five games of this season before his ineffective play prompted coach Chip Kelly to make the switch.
Generally, Kaepernick appeared to give the 49ers’ offense a better chance – at least in the first half. While Kaepernick had a solid first 30 minutes, the team’s problems on defense were apparent from beginning to end.
Kaepernick found a wide-open Torrey Smith for a 53-yard touchdown pass in the second quarter that gave the 49ers a short-lived 10-7 lead. Kaepernick’s pass was underthrown, but Smith was able to adjust to make the catch. Smith reversed course across the field to make it into the end zone untouched.
It was Kaepernick’s first touchdown pass since hitting Quinton Patton on a 21-yard pass on Oct. 18 of last season in the 49ers’ 25-20 win over the Baltimore Ravens.
But Kaepernick and the 49ers’ offense stalled in the second half. Kaepernick completed 13 of 29 passes for 187 yards with one touchdown and no interceptions. He also rushed for 66 yards on eight attempts.
Meanwhile, Bills running back LeSean McCoy had success throughout the game against the 49ers’ overmatched defense that rarely had a play without at least one missed tackle.
Since holding the Rams’ Todd Gurley to 47 yards rushing in the opener, the 49ers have not gone a game without surrendering 100 yards to an opponent on the ground.
Fozzy Whitaker (Carolina), Christine Michael (Seattle), Ezekiel Elliott (Dallas) and David Johnson (Arizona) tore through the 49ers’ defense for 100-yard games in the previous four games.
McCoy was outspoken in his criticism of Kelly after the then-Philadelphia Eagles coach traded his star running back to Buffalo. McCoy made his former coach pay on Sunday.
McCoy went over the 100-yard mark by halftime and his two rushing touchdowns accounted for the Bills’ 17-14 lead at the intermission.
McCoy left the game at the end of the second quarter with an apparent knee injury. He returned in the third quarter and finished with 140 yards and three touchdowns on 19 rushing attempts.
The Bills took a 24-13 lead at the end of three quarters on quarterback Tyrod Taylor’s 30-yard touchdown pass to Justin Hunter, who got behind 49ers safeties Eric Reid and Antoine Bethea.
Taylor completed 17 of 26 pass attempts for 179 yards and two touchdowns.
Injury report: Rookie cornerback Rashard Robinson was diagnosed Sunday with a concussion after leaving the game in the third quarter, the 49ers announced.
Robinson made his third consecutive start on Sunday against the Bills in place of Jimmie Ward, who has been out with a right quadriceps strain. Robinson enters the NFL’s concussion protocol, which he must pass in order to be eligible to play next Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
With Robinson out of action, Keith Reaser took over at cornerback. Dontae Johnson came into the game as the team’s third cornerback with Reaser moving inside to cover the slot receiver.
Also, the 49ers announced running back Carlos Hyde was questionable to return to action with a shoulder injury in the third quarter. Hyde returned to action after missing just one series.
Lineup changes: Kaepernick moving into the starting lineup was not the only change the 49ers made on Sunday. Rookie Joshua Garnett took over at right guard in place of Andrew Tiller, who started the first five games of the season. Garnett was the 49ers’ pick at No. 28 overall, as the team traded into the back end of the first round to select him.
The 49ers also made a change on defense, removing Mike Purcell from the starting lineup at nose tackle. Quinton Dial took over at nose tackle, with Arik Armstead at left defensive tackle and DeForest Buckner on the right side. When Dial needed a breather in the first quarter, veteran Glenn Dorsey went into the game at nose tackle.
The 49ers’ two most recent top draft picks combined for a turnover. Armstead was credited with a forced fumble on Bills quarterback Tyrod Taylor. Buckner recovered the fumble. The takeaway led to the 49ers’ first points of the game, a 33-yard field goal from Phil Dawson in the middle of the first quarter. Buckner recorded two sacks, while Armstead had one.
This ‘n’ that
--Dawson also made field goals from 48 and 47 yards.
--One change to the 49ers depth chart was enacted at tight end. Je’Ron Hamm took over as the 49ers’ No. 3 tight end in place of Blake Bell, who was declared inactive.
--Two 49ers players were inactive due to injuries – both quadriceps injuries. Safety Jaquiski Tartt and cornerback Jimmie Ward were inactive for the game. Ward missed his third consecutive game. Robinson again started in his place.
--The 49ers had six wide receivers active for the game, including Keshawn Martin, whom the 49ers signed on Sept. 27. Martin made his 49ers debut on Sunday. Martin also handled kickoff returns and lost a fumble in the fourth quarter.
--Bills outside linebacker Lorenzo Alexander beat 49ers left tackle Joe Staley for a 12-yard sack in the fourth quarter. It was Alexander’s league-leading eighth sack of the season.
