What happened: The San Francisco 49ers have allowed five rushes of 10 or more yards through Week 10 of the 2026 NFL season. The mark represents the lowest total by any defense through the first 10 weeks of a season since 2006. One of the five qualifying plays came on a backwards screen pass.
Why it matters: San Francisco sits at 7-1 atop the NFC standings following a 38-17 win against the Las Vegas Raiders on Nov. 8. Eliminating explosive runs has kept opponents in third-and-long situations and limited sustained scoring drives. The defense is on pace to eclipse the 20-year low set by Minnesota in 2008.
By the numbers: Fewest 10-plus-yard runs allowed through Week 10 since 2006: • 2026 San Francisco 49ers: 5 • 2008 Minnesota Vikings: 9 • Five teams tied: 10
What to watch: San Francisco enters Week 11 aiming to maintain its top seed in the NFC and extend its historically low allowance of explosive ground plays.