Jeff Chiu / Associated Press

J.T. O'Sullivan, who tossed two TD passes, also showed some running ability.

It was over when ...
Arnaz Battle recovered an onside kick with just over 6 minutes remaining and the 49ers holding a 15-point lead. Joe Nedney kicked a field goal with 4:25 left to take a three-score lead.

Game ball
Frank Gore rushed for 130 yards and a touchdown. His 27 attempts helped the 49ers control the clock in the second half, and his 33-yard run in the first quarter helped set up the 49ers' first score.

Key stat
J.T. O'Sullivan was not sacked in 23 pass attempts, an almost unheard of streak in a Mike Martz offense.

Noteworthy
The 49ers are 2-1 for the second consecutive year. ... Rudi Johnson rushed for 83 yards and caught a 34-yard touchdown pass for the Lions after replacing rookie rookie Kevin Smith. ... Quarterback Jon Kitna was shaken up toward the end of the game and had his right knee examined by the training staff.