The San Francisco 49ers (9-4) concluded their challenging first half of the season with a convincing 26-8 victory over the Cleveland Browns on Sunday. This win came right before their anticipated bye week, following a stretch marked by nine victories, four losses, and a slew of injuries that had threatened their playoff aspirations.
As Week 14 unfolds, the 49ers” three-game winning streak is momentarily paused, but the confidence within the team remains high. Safety Malik Mustapha expressed his team”s enthusiasm, stating, “It doesn”t matter when our bye is. We have the guys that just love ball.” Meanwhile, head coach Kyle Shanahan shared his satisfaction with the team”s playoff positioning, noting that they sit in the seventh and final playoff spot in the NFC, just a half-game behind the Los Angeles Rams and Seattle Seahawks.
Key Moments from the Game
Here are ten observations from the 49ers” first win in Cleveland since 1984:
1. Purdy vs. Garrett
The matchup between quarterback Brock Purdy and NFL sack leader Myles Garrett was a highlight. While Garrett secured his league-leading 19th sack, Purdy”s agility and awareness allowed him to elude further pressure. Purdy recalled an instance where he had to abandon a play: “I saw Garrett coming free… all I could do was throw the ball away.”
2. Purdy”s Swagger
Purdy showcased his playful side by celebrating a 2-yard touchdown run with a “Dougie” dance, a promise he made to his teammates. His confidence surged especially when the team was down 8-7 just before halftime. “He does a good job of bringing swag to the game,” wide receiver Ricky Pearsall noted.
3. Short-Field Success
The 49ers capitalized on favorable field positions for all three of their touchdown drives, starting at the 16, 32, and 18-yard lines of the Browns. Coach Kevin Stefanski acknowledged the errors, stating, “We”ve got to make them earn it.”
4. Malik Mania
Mustapha made a significant impact on defense, contributing to key tackles, including a crucial stop on fourth-and-1. His performance, which included seven tackles, set the tone early in the game.
5. Jennings” Controversial Presence
Receiver Jauan Jennings found himself at the center of attention post-game for his physical play. Browns players criticized him for his trash talk during the game, which led to some heated exchanges.
6. Multiple Sacks
The 49ers matched their season high with three sacks, with contributions from Clelin Ferrell and Keion White against rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders. Ferrell expressed his focus on the process that led to the sacks rather than personal accolades.
7. Defensive Shutout
Displaying a dominant defense, the 49ers achieved a second-half shutout, a first since the previous New Year”s Eve. The Browns were unable to convert on four fourth-down attempts and failed to reach the red zone.
8. Skyy Sets His Sights
Skyy Moore”s electrifying 66-yard punt return was the longest since 2011, setting up the first touchdown of the game. Moore expressed his determination to continue improving as a player.
9. McCaffrey”s Contributions
Despite only accumulating 74 yards, Christian McCaffrey scored a key touchdown, marking his eighth rushing touchdown in as many games. His performance continues to solidify his place among the league”s elite dual-threat players.
10. A Bizarre Season
This season has proved to be unusual for the 49ers, with unexpected outcomes manifesting as positives. Notably, Matt Gay successfully converted a go-ahead field goal just before halftime, contrasting last season”s missed opportunities.
As the 49ers look forward to their bye week, they carry with them the momentum of a significant victory, positioning themselves well for the remainder of the season.
