Saleh commends Jaguars' signal-reading, clash with Coen after Jags win

San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh's public praise of Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Liam Coen's ability to pick up opposing signals set the stage for a tense postgame confrontation Sunday, when the Jaguars beat the 49ers 26-21 at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara. Players and coaches from both teams intervened to separate Saleh and Coen after an animated exchange on the field, and Coen later described the episode as minor and said the matter would be handled internally.

Saleh drew attention during the week by telling reporters that Coen and his staff had "legally a really advanced signal stealing system" that helped put their offense in advantageous situations. He said the 49ers, who opened the season 3-0, would need to be disciplined with signals and communication to avoid giving away defensive looks. Saleh also referenced other coaching staffs he sees as adept at identifying opponent tells.

Coen largely sidestepped the controversy before the game, saying he wanted the focus to remain on preparing his team. After the game, which gave Jacksonville a 3-1 record and dropped San Francisco to 3-1, Coen acknowledged the on-field confrontation but downplayed its...