After Bitter Loss to Texans, 49ers Face Fierce Criticism - and San Francisco's Veteran Captain George Kittle Steps Up to Take Full Responsibility

Houston, Texas – October 26, 2025

The San Francisco 49ers endured a forgettable afternoon at NRG Stadium, falling 15–26 to the Houston Texans in what was considered one of their weakest offensive performances since the start of the season. After the final whistle, disappointment spread throughout the locker room, and no one spoke more forcefully than George Kittle, the captain and star of the 49ers.

In the post-game press conference, Kittle candidly took the blame:

“When you run the offense like we did today – three, four opening drives all failing, penalties, missed assignments, it really was a terrible performance. I don’t want to blame anyone else. Our offense played poorly, and that responsibility falls on me.”

Kittle – who just returned from a hamstring injury – showed true leadership spirit by daring to take the blame for the entire team. In the first half, the 49ers only managed 65 total yards, held the ball for less than six minutes, and allowed the Texans to lead 16–0. QB Mac Jones was constantly pressured, while the run game – a strength of San Francisco – was completely neutralized, achieving only 48 yards on the ground.

Even though the defense also struggled, Kittle still praised his teammates on the back line:

“I think our defense played very well, especially having to rotate due to injuries. They held the Texans to four field goals and two touchdowns – that’s enough for us to have a chance to win, but we, the offense, did not fulfill our responsibility.”

ESPN analysts noted that this was one of the worst offensive games under head gyms Kyle Shanahan, with the 49ers going “3 and out” three consecutive times and unable to maintain the game's pace. The Texans capitalized on that advantage, controlling the ball nearly twice as long and completely suffocating the 49ers.

Kittle concluded his speech with a determined voice:

“That first half was terrible. We have to look in the mirror and change. As captain, I take responsibility for that – and I promise to make the San Francisco offense return to its true form.”

After the bitter loss in Houston, George Kittle did not just take responsibility – he reignited the fighting spirit of the entire team, and 49ers fans believe that from this defeat, San Francisco will rise stronger than ever.