The San Francisco 49ers got the job done on Sunday night against the Dallas Cowboys with a 30-24 win that was, at times, more exciting than it needed to be. The team is back at .500 heading into the bye week hoping for reinforcements and a possible trade acquisition to get the team on track.

Let’s hand out two game balls on offense and defense with someone flying under the radar on each side.

Offense – George Kittle

It’s a simple matter, and Kittle continues to dominate Dallas with another big game on Sunday night. In his last three meetings with Dallas, Kittle had 14 receptions, 290 yards and four touchdowns, including 95 yards on five receptions in the 2023 divisional round. When the lights are on, Kittle shines brightest, but his obvious contempt and respect for history the 49ers/Cowboys pushed him to success against Dallas.

For eight weeks, Kittle has been the offensive MVP overall. If his performance continues, Kittle will be a first-team All-Pro in 2024. Keep in mind that Kittle has missed one game this season. At 31, there is no slowing down for the all-world tight end. Six receptions and 128 yards were good for 21.3 yards per reception and his season-high in receiving yards, having set his season-high the week before. Nothing is stopping Kittle this season. Throw him the ball more.

Under the radar offensive player – Ricky Pearsall

The 49ers’ first-round pick had his best day as a pro, with four catches for 38 yards and one rush for 39 yards. Pearsall will have an expanded role with Brandon Aiyuk’s injury and can only benefit from the rest week and additional reps to acclimate. With all reinforcements returning, Pearsall’s development has slipped through the cracks when discussing the team’s chances and potential. The first returns were encouraging.

Defense – Deommodore Lenoir

Statistics should tell part of the story and confirm what you saw with your eyes. Case in point: Deommodore Lenoir was hit for 105 yards on 12 scores on seven balls. Bad game, right? Not so fast. Lenoir is easily the team’s best cornerback in 2024 and intercepted Dak Prescott again on Sunday.

According to PFF, Lenoir ranks 20th in the NFL in coverage grade, ahead of Trent McDuffie. Lenoir has four PBUs, two interceptions and a 63.4 passer rating allowed in 291 coverage snaps. The player nicknamed “Hyena” has lived up to that name, leading this secondary with attitude and play on the field.

Under the radar defensive player – Sam Okuayinonu

Sammy O last played for the Tennesee Titans in 2022 and collected a total of four pressures, one sack and three QB hurries in 65 pass-rushing snaps. In 2024, it looks like the 49ers have “found money” with Okuayinonu, as he has totaled 15 pressures, three sacks, three QB hits, and nine hurries in 96 pass-rushing snaps.

With nine defensive stops, the 49ers have found a rotational defender who can disrupt games when given the opportunity. Another Kris Kocurek win?