The Houston Texans got off to a slow start against the San Francisco 49ers at Candlestick Park, but a costly mistake was quickly erased by an overwhelming offensive attack. At the half, the Texans lead the 49ers 24-7.
Things couldn't have started any better for the Niners, as linebacker Ahmad Brooks intercepted Matt Schaub's first pass attempt of the game and returned it 19 yards for a touchdown. With only ten seconds off the clock, the home team was already seven points up.
Before the game, head coach Jim Harbaugh made it known that he wanted to see how his second string QB, Colin Kaepernick, would look against the first string defense of the Texans. Harbaugh was hoping to see just how deep his squad is, and the results were not what he desired.
Kaepernick was erratic, completing only 1 of 5 passes, throwing a 73-yard interception returned for a touchdown by former Arizona State safety Troy Nolan.
Starting quarterback Alex Smith did not fare much better, going 2 for 6 on pass attempts in limited duty. Expect to see more from Smith in the second half, as Harbaugh cannot be satisfied with the production he has seen thus far.
Both sides of the ball struggled to find their footing in the first half. Schaub was able to complete 14 passes for 170 yards, showcasing his fantasy upside while taking advantage of top flight wide receiver Andre Johnson and erstwhile tight end Owen Daniels.
The Niners offense only converted three first downs, one of which was from a penalty. Between Kendall Hunter and Anthony Dixon, the running game managed 31 yards on ten rushing attempts. Without Frank Gore, this is an entirely different team.
On defense, linebacker NaVorro Bowman collected five tackles, while 2011 first round pick Aldon Smith added three of his own.
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