Frank Gore rushed for 205 yards and 3 TD as the 49ers survived a wild 1st half and went on to win 45-24 over the visiting Arizona Cardinals.
Steve Breaston returned the opening kickoff 94 yards for a TD for the Cardinals but Gore responded with a 77-yard TD run on the ensuing possession. Both teams traded scores until MLB Patrick Willis forced a fumble and returned it 45 yards for a TD to give the 49ers a 28-14. Another Gore TD gave the 49ers a 35-24 halftime lead.
The second half saw the 49ers work the clock on the ground thanks to Gore and Jamaal Charles, who finished with 220 all-purpose yards (34 rush, 39 receiving). The 49er defense held Arizona scoreless in the 2nd half, and Gore\'s 3rd TD and an Art Carmody field goal finished the scoring.
Reigning MVP Alex Smith had a quiet yet efficient day, throwing for 161 yards on 12 of 17 passing and a TD to favorite target TE Vernon Davis. Smith also ran for a TD in the 1st quarter to give the 49ers a 14-7 lead.
Gore and Willis earned some respect for their play this week. Gore earned NFL Offensive Player of the Week honors and Willis, who finished with 2 tackles and a sack besides the TD, earned NFL Defensive Player of the Week honors.
