Running back Frank Gore exited the game at the start of the third quarter with an ankle injury, but not before doing some damage of his own first, including a 4-yard touchdown catch from Shaun Hill to put the 49ers up 14-7 at the half.
The heart and soul of the 49ers offense needed just 74 yards to surpass the 1,000-yard rushing mark. He got 52 of them in two quarters and two plays on 14 carries for 3.7-yard average against a Jets defense that entered the game ranked fourth against the run.
"I was going to have a great game," said Gore. "I was going to have a big game today, but it just wasn't meant for today. Things happen and I have to try and get well. I'm trying to get alright for the Miami game."
Gore required assistance clearing the field after picking up a first down on a 5-yard carry at the start of the third quarter. Shortly thereafter, he headed into the locker room on a cart for x-rays.
He returned to the bench area later in the game, hobbling back and forth as he cheered on teammates.
"It's tight. Tight and sore. It's sad, but I'll be fine," he said.
In his absence, DeShaun Foster took the bulk of the carries, gaining 35 yards on 16 carries with a long of 6.
"It was good to get in there and help the team get a victory," said Foster. "Our line did a great job and we won out."
Foster did fumble once, but guard David Baas quickly fell on the loose ball.
Gore was disappointed about sitting out, but still had a huge grin on his face following the victory.
"I was happy man. Shaun Hill, the receivers, DeShaun, Mike Rob – they did a great job. That's what we need. The more depth we have on the team, the better your team will be," he said.
Gore expects to know more about his playing status by Wednesday or Thursday, but if he has any say, he'll be in action when the 49ers go again next Sunday in Miami.
"Aw man, I haven't played at home in four years," said Gore. "I'm ready. We'll just take it one day at a time and try to get better, go into Miami, get my 1,000 yards and try to get a win, then bring it back to the West Coast for my fans on the West Coast."
