The San Francisco 49ers secured a commanding 20-9 victory over the Carolina Panthers on Monday Night Football, improving to 8-4 on the season. The win showcased a complete team effort, highlighted by a historic performance from running back Christian McCaffrey.
McCaffrey totaled 142 yards from scrimmage, combining 89 rushing yards with 53 receiving yards on seven receptions, and scored a rushing touchdown. His performance placed him among the NFL’s all-time elite, joining the ranks of legends like Marshall Faulk.
The 49ers opened the game with a 15-play, 72-yard scoring drive, culminating in a 12-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Brock Purdy to wide receiver Jauan Jennings. It was the first opening drive of 15-plus plays resulting in a TD for the team since 2021.
“I just try to execute, make the right reads, and trust my teammates,” McCaffrey said postgame. “Tonight everything clicked, and it felt amazing to help the team like this, breaking records but still focused on the win.”
Brock Purdy had a mixed night, throwing 23 completions on 32 attempts for 193 yards with one touchdown, but also three interceptions. Head coach Kyle Shanahan emphasized the decisions were solid, attributing turnovers to execution rather than poor judgment.
The defense was dominant, limiting the Panthers to converting just 1 of 7 third-down attempts, the lowest since 2022. Safety Ji’Ayir Brown notched two interceptions, marking his first multiple-INT game since 2023 and contributing significantly to the team’s defensive effort.
Clelin Ferrell added a sack to his season total, and linebacker Nick Martin recorded a forced fumble on special teams, his first in that role. These plays highlighted the 49ers’ depth and versatility across units.
Wide receiver Jauan Jennings contributed with five receptions for 41 yards and a touchdown, continuing his consistent production and helping sustain drives when Purdy needed support. His touchdown was his fourth of the season and 17th in his career.
Kicker Matt Gay was perfect in his 49ers debut, converting both field goal attempts and extra points. His reliable kicking provided crucial scoring, complementing the offensive and defensive dominance seen throughout the game.
McCaffrey’s performance also marked multiple historic milestones: 67 career 100-yard games, the most among active NFL running backs, and 38 career games with 50-plus rushing and receiving yards, second only to Marshall Faulk.
The 49ers also tied the Pittsburgh Steelers for the most Monday Night Football wins in NFL history, securing their 54th victory in the time slot. This achievement underscores the team’s consistency in prime-time performance and competitive excellence.
With the win, San Francisco aims to extend its streak in the NFC, building momentum as the playoffs approach. McCaffrey’s historic night, combined with contributions from Purdy, Jennings, and the defense, positions the team as a formidable contender moving forward.
