The 49ers faced a tough loss in the NFC championship game last season, falling 31-7 due to injuries to Brock Purdy and Josh Johnson. However, they bounced back in Week 13 against the Eagles, securing a 42-19 victory.
Despite a slow start in the first quarter, the 49ers revved up their offense and didn’t let up. They scored touchdowns in six consecutive drives, showcasing the effectiveness of Kyle Shanahan’s offensive strategy. Facing challenges is common in sports, but the 49ers’ ability to recover and perform well highlights their resilience and skill.
The Eagles, leading in the NFC East, experienced a challenging loss. The most concerning moment was when Jalen Hurts briefly exited the game for a concussion evaluation. Fortunately, he returned, bringing relief to Eagles fans. Ultimately, Hurts completed 26 of 45 passes for 298 yards and a touchdown. Notably, he also led the Eagles in rushing with seven carries for 20 yards and scored an additional touchdown.
Here is the Match Recap.
First Quarter Summary
Field Goal: Jake Elliott kicked a 26-yard field goal, with A.J. Brown’s 38-yard catch and Kenneth Gainwell’s 11-yard run setting up the play. It’s worth noting that this was the first time since Week 8 that the Eagles couldn’t score a touchdown in the red zone. (Eagles 3 – 49ers 0)
. Sack: Haason Reddick tackled Brock Purdy on second-and-10, leading the 49ers to punt after they couldn’t convert on third-and-2.
. Field Goal: Elliott made another kick, this time from 39 yards. A slip by Jalen Hurts moved the offense back from the San Francisco 14-yard line to the 29-yard line. (Eagles 6 – 49ers 0)
Coach Sirianni’s Comment: “It was tough for us to start the game fast and only be up by six points.”
The first quarter ended with the Eagles ahead 6-0 against the 49ers.
Second Quarter Summary:
. The 49ers scored a 2-yard touchdown as Purdy connected with Aiyuk in the end zone. The play underwent review but stood. An offside penalty on Josh Sweat gave the 49ers another chance, leading to a touchdown. (49ers 7 – Eagles 6)
. Shortly before halftime, the 49ers extended their lead with a touchdown from McCaffrey. (49ers 14 – Eagles 6)
Coach Sirianni’s Comment: “Tackling this team is challenging. Today was a bit unusual for us in that aspect.”
At the close of the second quarter, the 49ers led 14-6 against the Eagles.
Why 49ers can cover
San Francisco had a bye week after three consecutive losses, but the team has since bounced back with three dominant victories over Jacksonville, Tampa Bay, and Seattle, winning by margins of 31, 13, and 18 points, respectively. Quarterback Brock Purdy has improved his performance, particularly in Week 12, where he threw for 209 yards and one touchdown. Notably, Purdy, who was injured in last year’s conference championship game, might be seeking revenge in the upcoming game against Philadelphia.
San Francisco entered its bye week on a positive note, securing three consecutive victories after a challenging stretch of losses. The 49ers triumphed over Jacksonville, Tampa Bay, and Seattle, with convincing margins of 31, 13, and 18 points, respectively. Quarterback Brock Purdy, who had faced difficulties earlier, notably delivered a strong performance in Week 12, recording 209 yards and one touchdown. Having suffered an injury in last year’s conference championship game, Purdy is likely motivated to seek redemption against Philadelphia in the upcoming week.
Why the Eagles can cover
Philadelphia has secured narrow victories in its last four games, all decided by one possession. In the recent thrilling overtime win against Buffalo, Jalen Hurts delivered a standout performance, throwing for 200 yards and three touchdowns while rushing for two more. Throughout the season, Hurts has accumulated 18 passing scores and 11 rushing touchdowns, often utilizing a unique play known as “The Brotherly Shove.”
Star wide receiver A.J. Brown for Philadelphia has seen a dip in activity recently, recording only 111 yards and two touchdowns in the last three games after an impressive six-game stretch with 125 or more receiving yards. With tight end Dallas Goedert sidelined, the Eagles’ second receiver, Devonta Smith, has stepped up with notable performances, including 6 receptions for 99 yards and no touchdowns, and 7 receptions for 106 yards and 1 touchdown in the last two games, respectively. Against the formidable 49ers defense, the Eagles will need a sharp offensive strategy, and Hurts may focus on targeting Brown and Smith frequently.