49ers Report Card: Tie feels more like a loss

The 49ers had a tough time containing Rams RB Steven Jackson and the St. Louis offense. (US Presswire)

San Francisco TE Delanie Walker summed up much of his team's thoughts on its 24-24 tie to St. Louis: “It actually feels like a loss, to tell you the truth. That's just how it feels.”

Offense: B

After losing starting QB Alex Smith to a concussion in the second quarter, backup Colin Kaepernick had a mixed showing in relief. He completed just two of his first seven passes, but rebounding nicely, connecting on nine of his final 10. Kaepernick had the team in position for a game-winning FG in OT, but David Akers' 41-yard attempt missed wide left. On the team's only other drive in OT, it lost five yards and was forced to punt. Previous game's grade: A-

Defense: C+

Rams QB Sam Bradford threw for 275 yards, RB Steven Jackson ran for 101 and WR Danny Amendola made 11 catches for 102 yards. That type of production is rare against the 49ers – especially against a divisional opponent. The 24 points allowed were the second-most the unit had allowed all year -- only the New York Giants (26) scored more. Previous game's grade: A

Special teams: D

The Rams converted not one, but two fake punts and the second proved costly. It allowed St. Louis to score a go-ahead TD with just over a minute remaining in regulation and essentially cost San Francisco the win. It would have been forgotten if not for Akers' missed FG. The coverage units struggled throughout the game as well. Previous game's grade: A

Coaching: C+

Coming off a bye week, expectations were considerably high headed into a game with a 3-5 team at home. It wasn't a loss, but it feels like one. Especially considering that in the Rams' previous game, they were outscored by 38 points in a loss to the Patriots. Smith's injury changed the game plan, but the 49ers were losing when he exited. Previous game's grade: A

Follow 49ers reporter Kyle Bonagura on Twitter @CBS49ers and @KyleBonagura.