Frank Gore's numbers slip since quarterback switch

SANTA CLARA -- Pro Bowl-bound Frank Gore said he's had to become a more patient runner because of the 49ers' read-option and pistol formations behind quarterback Colin Kaepernick.

"Some plays you just don't know if he's going to keep (the ball) or not," Gore said Wednesday. "I've got to be patient and can't hit the hole that fast in the pistol."

Perhaps known best for his vision to find holes, Gore's production has tailed off to 4.01 yards per carry in Kaepernick's six starts after he gained 5.38 per carry in Alex Smith's nine starts. Gore had only six carries for 28 yards in Sunday's 42-13 loss at Seattle, and only one carry after the first quarter.

"We do different things with Kap, as far as running the ball," said Gore, who has eclipsed the 1,000-yard mark for a franchise-record sixth season. He is 65 yards and one touchdown shy of matching last season's total of 1,211 yards and eight touchdowns.

Named to his fourth Pro Bowl, Gore noted that he feels stronger and fresher than a year ago at this time. He has 238 carries this season compared with last year's total of 282.

"It's been a pretty good year. I've played good football," Gore said. "I play hard, I'm consistent, and I help the team get wins."


(mercurynews.com)