The 49ers' dominant defense has earned the spotlight this season. But in the first half Sunday against the Carolina Panthers, that shine belonged to running back Tevin Coleman.
As the 49ers jogged to the locker room at Levi's Stadium, Coleman already had three touchdowns to his name, passing his season total of two in one day.
Coleman showcased his speed and dashed to the end zone for a 19-yard run on his first touchdown, giving the 49ers a 13-3 lead with 1:09 left in the first quarter.
With our All Access Daily newsletter, stay in the game with the latest updates on your beloved Bay Area and California sports teams!
SIGN UP HERE 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan used a little misdirection on Coleman's second gallop to the end zone. Quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo looked to his right before turning left and dumping a short pass to Coleman, who raced 10 yards to give the 49ers a 21-3 lead with 12:43 left in the second quarter.
The 49ers' offensive line later opened the gates for Coleman, who passed a test of speed between he and the Panthers' defense. For third time in the first half, Coleman was too much for Carolina, scoring a 48-yard TD.
Coleman had carried the ball five times for 91 yards and two touchdowns by halftime. He also had one reception for 10 yards and another score.
[RELATED: Instant impact: Sanders scores first 49ers TD to open game]
San Francisco 49ers
Find the latest San Francisco 49ers news, highlights, analysis and more with NBC Sports Bay Area and California.
The veteran back entered the game ranked third on the 49ers with 227 rushing yards on 60 carries and two rushing TDs. Coleman also had six receptions for 48 yards.
Coleman wasn't the only 49er to have quite impressive first-half stats. Rookie defensive end Nick Bosa sacked Panthers QB Kyle Allen three times before halftime.
Bosa now has seven sacks on the season.