Buckner and Bosa return boost 49ers defence in win over Raiders

The San Francisco 49ers’ defence looked markedly stronger after the return of defensive end Nick Bosa and the re‑signing of DeForest Buckner, helping the team to a 38‑17 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday.

Bosa, back after missing five games with a calf injury, and Buckner, playing his first game since being traded back to the 49ers during the bye week, were described by linebacker Fred Warner as “super disruptive players” whose presence freed up the rest of the defence.

San Francisco generated five takeaways – the first time in nearly 12 years – all in the second half, including a pick‑6 by rookie Jaden Dugger on the opening snap of the third quarter. Warner forced and recovered a fumble, while Renardo Green and Malik Mustapha each intercepted a pass.

The Niners also limited the Raiders to just 24 yards rushing, the fewest allowed since a 17‑yard total against Atlanta on 8 Nov 2015. Tight‑end coverage allowed 10 catches for 148 yards, the second‑most given up to opposing tight ends in the last 19 seasons.

With key players Mike Evans and Deebo Samuel sidelined, wide‑receiver Jordan Watkins contributed four catches for 86 yards, including a 37‑yard touchdown. The 49ers now head to Dallas seeking a second 8‑1 start of the season.

Source: ABC News. Photo: Abdulvahap Demir / Pexels.