"It's probably one of the worst ones (losses) I've been a part of," admitted linebacker Fred Warner. "It is embarrassing. You gotta take it on the chin, take it like a man, and move on."
Despite the mounting challenges, one player maintained his signature optimism, even as the 49ers' record dropped to 5-6, further decreasing their playoff chances.
When asked if this season's struggles had tested his positivity, tight end George Kittle responded emphatically, "No. Why would it? I mean, we're not where we want to be by any means."
Kittle acknowledged the myriad of mistakes that contributed to the 28-point loss, citing penalties, turnovers, an inability to establish the run, and a lopsided time of possession. Yet, he remained resolute.
"My optimism is not broken by any means," Kittle continued. "We still have a lot of very talented players. We will get some guys back. And I still have full trust in the coaching staff to put our guys in position to make plays, and I got no worry about that.
"But definitely an uphill grind, and gonna see what we're made of, which I'm looking forward to."
Head coach Kyle Shanahan addressed the team in the visitors' locker room following the disappointing loss. Kittle shared a summary of Shanahan's postgame message to his players.
"Without going word for word—that's not Niner football," Kittle said. "We didn't play the way we want to play, whether it's missed tackles on defense, penalties. Basically, what I already said to you guys. I do a good job of taking what Kyle says and just saying it right back to you guys."
The road doesn't get any easier for the struggling 49ers, who now face a challenging trip to Orchard Park to take on the Buffalo Bills. Sitting at 5-6, their playoff hopes are slipping. A loss next week, dropping them to 5-7, would be disastrous for their postseason aspirations.
Related News
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
George Kittle has blunt message about 49ers' Super Bowl window
In 2023, San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle admitted there was a sense of urgency within the team to capture a championship while the Super Bowl window was still open. After a disappointing 6-11 campaign this past season, some might argue that the window has slammed... -
George Kittle reveals how 49ers' Brock Purdy grew amid a tough 2024 season
The San Francisco 49ers are expected to work on a long-term extension for quarterback Brock Purdy this offseason. Inside the team's Santa Clara facilities, there's no doubt that Purdy is the franchise quarterback they've been seeking for years. Since being selected as the final... -
Terrell Owens sends clear message on 49ers, Brock Purdy contract talks
Fans are eager to see the San Francisco 49ers sign their young franchise quarterback, Brock Purdy, to a contract extension early to avoid any offseason drama. In recent years, the team has faced challenges in quickly finalizing deals with its big-name stars, leading to unwanted... -
49ers' Fred Warner sends a strong message to Brock Purdy's critics
Debate has surrounded Brock Purdy's value, especially as the San Francisco 49ers quarterback becomes eligible for his first contract extension. After three seasons as one of the NFL's best bargains, Purdy is expected to become one of the league's highest-paid players. Yet, some...