Despite the interception thrown to start the game, Hoyer's 87.7 grade by Pro Football Focus was his best of the season and the third-best among 49ers players on Thursday night. Only defensive lineman DeForest Buckner and wide receiver Pierre Garçon graded higher.
Rookie wide receiver Trent Taylor had three catches for 32 yards. However, it was an offensive pass interference call against Taylor that was crucial to the 49ers' defeat in the final two minutes of the game. The reception would have given the 49ers a first down at the Rams' 39-yard line during what could have been a game-winning drive. Two plays later, on fourth-and-20, Hoyer was sacked by Rams defensive lineman Aaron Donald and the 49ers' chances at a comeback win were over.
Below is the play from Hoyer to Taylor, courtesy of Rob Lowder of Niners Wire. You be the judge.
Our own Al Sacco, who was covering the game for 49ers Webzone, had the following to write about the penalty call.
Following the game, Hoyer was asked about the penalty on Taylor.
"I don't want to get fined," Hoyer said.
RELATED
Hoyer was then asked what he thought he saw during the play.
"I don't see it because I'm throwing to the spot but in that time of the game, I mean, I think you would let people play," Hoyer said. "But I haven't seen it. I have to go and watch the film. You know what? You don't want to leave it up to the ref's hands anyways. You hope you make a few plays earlier in the game to change the outcome. If it comes down to that, then that's what it is. That's what the guy's job is to do."
The 49ers have now lost each of their three games to open the season and will have 10 days until they play another game, which will be an October 1 road matchup against the Arizona Cardinals.
"Unfortunately, it's been three games and we still haven't got a win," Hoyer said. "But I think we have the right people in that locker room and the right coaches and once we put it together, it will be good and we have to play a complete game. When the defense plays well, we have to score points. When we play well, we've all got to play together and figure out a way to win. Whatever it takes."
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
49ers' Mykel Williams reveals plan to improve his game
The newest addition to the San Francisco 49ers, former Georgia defensive end Mykel Williams, arrived in Santa Clara on Friday and met with Bay Area reporters in person for the first time. At just 20 years old, the young defender is eager to get to work and develop his skills at... -
49ers climb in power rankings after defense-heavy draft haul
NFL.com's Eric Edholm released his post-draft power rankings, offering insight into where each team stands after adding their latest rookie classes. At the top of the list are the Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles, whose draft haul once again earned Edholm's praise. The... -
49ers Draft Night Vibes at Levi's Stadium
This past Thursday, I had the chance to soak in the electric atmosphere at Levi's Stadium for the 49ers' Draft Party. From the gold-blooded diehards to the next generation of the Faithful, there was plenty of buzz about who the 49ers would select with the 11th overall pick. As... -
The Doubt Is Just Crazy at This Point
Opinions on how the 49ers will perform this season vary widely. Some analysts praise their excellent draft class, while others argue that the championship window has closed. With so much success over the last eight years under Kyle Shanahan and John Lynch, it's puzzling why...