The sixth-seeded San Francisco 49ers stunned the third-seeded Philadelphia Eagles 23-19 on Sunday, punching their ticket to the NFC Divisional Round against the Seattle Seahawks.
At a Glance
- Brock Purdy threw for 262 yards and two touchdowns
- Christian McCaffrey caught two fourth-quarter touchdowns
- George Kittle suffered a right Achilles injury and was ruled out
- Why it matters: The 49ers’ Super Bowl LX hopes stay alive, but they must win two more road games
San Francisco entered Lincoln Financial Field as six-point underdogs, per NBCSports.com, yet left with a gritty upset that reshapes the NFC playoff bracket.
Purdy Delivers Under Pressure
Brock Purdy completed 18 of 31 passes for 262 yards, tossing two touchdowns against two interceptions. The fourth-year quarterback shrugged off a hostile crowd and kept the chains moving when it mattered most.
McCaffrey’s Dual Threat
Christian McCaffrey’s rushing totals were modest-48 yards on 15 carries-but his hands stole the show. The All-Pro back reeled in six catches for 66 yards and both of his scores came in the final frame, swinging momentum for good.
Defense Holds the Line
Missing several starters, the 49ers’ defense still bottled up an Eagles attack known for explosive plays. The unit bent but never broke, forcing field goals and timely incompletions to preserve the narrow margin.
Kittle’s Costly Injury
Tight end George Kittle went down with a right Achilles injury in the second quarter and did not return. His absence looms large as San Francisco prepares for another road test.
Next Up: Seahawks Rematch
The 49ers travel to Lumen Field on Saturday for a divisional showdown with the Seahawks. Kickoff is set for either 1:30 p.m. PT or 5 p.m. PT. The winner advances to face the victor of the Los Angeles Rams vs. Chicago Bears contest on Sunday.
San Francisco split the regular-season series with Seattle, winning the opener in the Pacific Northwest before dropping the finale at home last weekend. Round three carries the highest stakes yet: a berth in the NFC Championship Game.
Road to Super Bowl LX
The franchise’s dream of playing Super Bowl LX in its own Levi’s Stadium remains possible, but the path is daunting. Two more victories away from home are required to bring the title tilt to Santa Clara.
Key Takeaways
- San Francisco’s upset shakes up the NFC bracket
- Purdy and McCaffrey combined for four total touchdowns
- Kittle’s health is the top storyline heading into Saturday
- A third clash with Seattle decides who stays alive for the conference crown
