49ers beat: Injuries put Quinton Patton on the spot in overtime

Wide receiver Quinton Patton, who was inactive for the first 13 games, had touched the ball just two times this season before he fumbled in overtime Saturday after a 20-yard run on an end around. So why were the 49ers turning to Patton at a critical

I am putting faith in Philip Rivers to make plays late and hand the 49ers a fourth straight loss. A lot of said plays could involve Antonio Gates, who should be targeted plenty. While the San Diego offense did not fare well last 

Head coach Jim Harbaugh of the San Francisco 49ers looks on in the second half while taking on the San Diego Chargers at Levi's Stadium on December 20, 2014 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) 

Head coach Jim Harbaugh of the San Francisco 49ers looks on in the second half while taking on the San Diego Chargers at Levi's Stadium on December 20, 2014 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) 

The 49ers have released defensive lineman Ray McDonald after it emerged police had searched his home following allegations of sexual assault.