The game, in which Purdy threw for 200 yards on 19-of-26 passing with three TDs and no picks, underscored Kyle Shanahan’s confidence in returning to the starting lineup after a solid performance by backup Mac Jones. The offense simply does better with Purdy at the helm — and that’s not a knock on Jones.
“You just have to look at his numbers,” Shanahan said. “Not many have done it better than him. He’s been as efficient as anyone. He’s made as many big plays as anyone.”
Sunday was Purdy’s ninth career game with three-plus passing TDs and zero interceptions (his first since Week 6, 2024 at Seattle). Only Jared Goff, Lamar Jackson and Patrick Mahomes have more since 2022. The starter’s 133.5 career passer rating marked the 11th time he posted at least 130.0, the most by a QB in his first four seasons since at least 1970.
“Brock’s presence in the lineup is just so elite,” Kittle said. “He plays the game with this joy that’s so infectious, and it’s just so fun to play football with him. … He was definitely feeling it. I think he’s got the confidence;
Purdy’s comeback continued in 2025 for the Niners, who have alternated wins and losses over the past eight weeks (since opening the year with three straight wins). The hope is that with the starters back in the lineup, San Francisco (7-4) can go on a run. In Week 12, they face the upstart Panthers (6-5) in prime time Monday night football.