Instant Reaction: 49ers Squeak Past Chiefs 22-17

San Francisco got off to a slow start, falling behind the Chiefs early before coming back and taking the 13-10 halftime lead.

Halftime Quick Hitters: 49ers Score Late, Lead Chiefs 13-10

Kansas City reclaimed the lead in third quarter thanks to a 17-yard screen pass to rookie De'Anthony Thomas, but San Francisco was able to counter with a couple of field goals to take the 22-17 lead. Kansas City got the ball back with just over two minutes left and a chance to win, but quarterback Alex Smith threw an interception to end their chances.

Turning Point: Trailing by one early in the fourth quarter, Jim Harbaugh called a fake punt on his own 30-yard line on a 4th & 1. The 49ers barely converted it, but it kept the drive alive and they went down the field and kicked a field goal, putting them up for good.

Key Stat: The Chiefs only managed to get 90 yards rushing against the 49ers front seven, just a week after racking up over 200 yards on the ground against New England. Their struggle forced Andy Reid to throw the ball on a lot of third-and-shorts, most of which Kansas City didn't convert on.

San Francisco MVP: Colin Kaepernick and Frank Gore each had good games, but we're giving this one to the kicker! Phil Dawson was 5-5 on field goals on the day for the Niners, including two that were over 50 yards.

Kansas City MVP: No particular player had a huge impact for the Chiefs, but Alex Smith played well enough to win the game. He was efficient passing the ball (17-31, 175 yards, 2 TDs), but the offense lacked explosiveness all day long.

What’s Next? San Francisco keeps pace in a crowded NFC West by moving to 3-2, and will face an improved St. Louis team next Monday night. Kansas City drops to a disappointing 2-3 record, but they'll look to turn things around as they continue their West Coast tour by facing the Chargers in San Diego next weekend.