49ers' Gore Sees Slight Play-Time Reduction

SAN FRANCISCO -- Running back Frank Gore, who rushed for 102 yards on 19 carries, saw a slight reduction in his play time Sunday. He was on the 49ers' sideline for eight snaps in the 49ers' 23-20 loss to the Carolina Panthers.

Gore played 96 percent of the 49ers' offensive snaps in the first six games. On Sunday, he played 86 percent.

Rookie Anthony Dixon was the 49ers' No. 2 back, ahead of veteran Brian Westbrook, who appears to be just a specialty back. In the first half, Dixon was on the field for four offensive plays, while Westbrook saw action on just one snap. Westbrook was in the same backfield as Gore on his one first-half snap.

Dixon took a 6-yard loss on his one rushing attempt, while Westbrook was stopped for a 1-yard loss on his only carry. Westbrook played four snaps in the second half, including the final play on which the 49ers went with 10 skill players.

But Westbrook will probably be the undisputed backup on Sunday against the Denver Broncos, as Dixon sustained a hamstring strain in the fourth quarter and might not be available for action until after the bye week.

For the season, Gore has carried 135 times for 573 yards (4.2 average) and one touchdown. Meanwhile, Dixon has rushed four times for 8 yards and a TD, and Westbrook has three carries for 5 yards. Gore also leads the 49ers with 37 pass receptions. Westbrook has three catches for 25 yards, while Dixon has not caught a pass.

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(csnbayarea.com)