49ers dominate Chargers in preseason, spotlighting emerging players

San Francisco's defense and offense controlled the line of scrimmage en route to a lopsided victory over the Los Angeles Chargers in the 49ers' second preseason game. The win featured impactful plays across all three phases of the game.

Defensive linemen Sam Okuayinonu and Osa Odighizuwa stood out, with Okuayinonu recording two stops, a tackle for loss and a quarterback hit in limited snaps, while Odighizuwa demonstrated versatility by forcing multiple pressures and disrupting runs. On the offensive side, running back Kaelon Black impressed with disciplined running, gaining 33 yards on eight carries, forcing three missed tackles and contributing to pass protection.

Special teams saw Nick Martin force a fumble on a kickoff and record four tackles, and Jacob Cowing returned an 83-yard kickoff, prompting head coach Kyle Shanahan to note his potential as a returner. Cornerback Jack Jones broke up two passes and showed confidence in coverage, and De’Zhaun Stribling delivered a clean performance with two contested catches and solid route running.

The game also exposed weaknesses in the left guard competition. Robert Jones is expected to miss the remainder of the preseason with an injury, while Carver Willis, Austen Pleasants and Connor Colby displayed inconsistencies in run blocking and pass protection, leaving the starting left guard position unresolved.

Garret Wallow struggled defensively, allowing five completions for 44 yards and missing three tackles, highlighting the challenges faced by special-team players transitioning to defensive roles.