Photo credit: @49ers

By: Joe Lami

If Saturday was the final tune-up for the San Francisco 49ers’ 2018 season, it might be time to rethink expectations for the year. In a 23-17 loss to the Indianapolis Colts, the San Francisco 49ers looked sluggish at times offensively, especially in the red zone at Lucas Oil Stadium.

In a continuation of last year, they depended too much on the foot of kicker Robbie Gould, instead of punching the ball into the end zone. The 14-year vet hit all three of his kicks with his first being the longest of the night from 37 yards.

Jimmy Garoppolo played the entire first half, connecting on nine of his 19 attempts for 135 yards. Though his performance wasn’t great, he connected with both Pierre Garçon and Marquise Goodwin three times each for 62 yards and 40 yards respectively.

Goodwin left the game with a hand injury but came back for his final catch of six yards, making it appear only minor.

Though Garcon and Goodwin seem to be finding a rhythm with Garoppolo, they were once again outplayed by Richie James Jr. The seventh-rounder continues to prove his case in making the 53-man roster, as he finished with three catches for 65 yards.

Alfred Morris saw his initial touches as a 49er and finished with a strong 84 yards on 17 attempts, making a strong case to make the final 53-man roster.

Former Stanford star Andrew Luck played the first half for the Colts and shined, throwing 8-of-10 for 90 yards and a touchdown. He found Eric Ebron on the sole touchdown of the first half that included a beautifully thrown ball over the middle. Coming back from a significant throwing arm injury, it appears that Luck may be back and better than ever.

Unfortunately for the Niners, they had a severe injury of their own. Linebacker Reuben Foster continues to be riddled with injuries as he suffered a concussion in the pre-season contest. Foster’s return is expected for week three of the regular season, following his two-game suspension.

Cornerback Jimmie Ward also went down with a quad injury.

The sole 49ers’ touchdown once again came in the form of late heroics from Nick Mullens. The third-string quarterback is quickly becoming a fan favorite, finishing Saturday 4-of-6 passing for 62 yards. He also ran in a score from two yards out.

Does last year’s scout squad quarterback have a chance to make the team? We’ll find out after Thursday night’s contest against the Chargers at Levi’s Stadium at 7 pm PDT to close out the pre-season.