SANTA CLARA, Calif. -- Here's a look at the first half of the season for the San Francisco 49ers (1-7) and a preview of what to expect in the second half:

Grade: F Even the most optimistic of outside observers saw this as a rebuilding season for the 49ers, but the first half hasn't offered much in the way of hope for the present, let alone the future. Coach Chip Kelly and Co. had a good start in Week 1, but it's been all downhill since. The Niners rank at or near the bottom of the league in most major categories on both sides of the ball. The losing was expected, but the regular blowouts have made it apparent this rebuild is going to require something closer to a massive reconstruction to right this sinking ship.

Midseason MVP: LT Joe Staley. There really aren't many choices here, though receiver Jeremy Kerley would probably be in this spot had Blaine Gabbert remained the starting quarterback. But Staley has remained the bedrock of the Niners' offensive line, a solid, steady presence who can be counted on week in and week out against just about any pass rusher. While rumors swirled about a potential trade involving Staley before the deadline, the Niners held on to him. Keeping one of their few consistent performers was a wise decision, especially if they pick a quarterback early in the 2017 NFL draft.

Best moment: The season-opening win against the Rams. OK, it's not a moment, per se, but it's really the only joy the 49ers have offered through the first half. Taking on the Rams in their first regular-season game representing Los Angeles again, the Niners blistered them from start to finish, with the defense pitching a shutout and running game revving at full throttle. For one night, at least, there was some hope of better things ahead.

Worst moment: Jaquiski Tartt drew an unnecessary roughness penalty leading to a meltdown against the Cowboys -- Pointing to one particular moment among the many bad ones through the first eight weeks is difficult, but this one stands out because it was the beginning of the end in a game the Niners legitimately had a chance to win. After suffering blowout losses to Carolina and Seattle the previous two weeks, San Francisco jumped all over Dallas and was in the midst of putting together its best half of the season. After the penalty gave Dallas a first down instead of a punt, the Cowboys went on to score 24 of the game's next 27 points and win 24-17. In the midst of that run, the Niners offered another contender for this award: the season-ending Achilles injury to linebacker NaVorro Bowman.

Second-half outlook: Things don't figure to get much easier for the 49ers down the stretch. They face difficult games against the likes of the New England Patriots, Seattle Seahawks, Arizona Cardinals and Atlanta Falcons. Even seemingly winnable games like a rematch with the Rams and meetings with the Chicago Bears and Miami Dolphins are on the road. It's entirely possible the 49ers won't be favored in another game this season, and it might be better for their long-term future if they don't win anymore so they can maximize their draft position.