49ers Dominate Browns 26-8 Behind McCaffrey and Purdy's Dual Rushing Touchdowns

The San Francisco 49ers (8-4 entering the game) journeyed to Cleveland to confront the struggling Browns (3-8 before kickoff) in a pivotal Week 13 contest. The 49ers required every victory to solidify their playoff positioning, while Cleveland sought to build on their recent triumph over Las Vegas with rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders leading the way.

First Quarter: Early Fireworks Set the Tone

The game ignited right from the start when return specialist Moore dashed 66 yards on the opening kickoff, reaching Cleveland's 16-yard line and placing San Francisco in a prime scoring location. The 49ers swiftly capitalized on this advantageous field position. Christian McCaffrey, enjoying an impressive comeback season after missing much of 2024, executed a 1-yard touchdown run, granting San Francisco an early 7-0 lead.

Cleveland responded with their most effective drive of the game as Sanders exhibited the composure befitting Cleveland's rising quarterback option. The rookie successfully connected with Jerry Jeudy and Harold Fannin Jr. for essential completions, while Quinshon Judkins solidified the ground attack with his reliable running style that has established him as Cleveland's primary back.

Second Quarter: Momentum Swings Both Ways

The Browns retaliated in dramatic fashion late in the second quarter. Sanders connected with Fannin Jr. on an impressive 34-yard touchdown pass, highlighting the rapport they've been developing. Following this, the Browns executed a successful two-point conversion, with Judkins rushing for the score, snatching an 8-7 lead and surprising the favored visitors.

Nevertheless, San Francisco answered immediately before halftime. With mere seconds remaining, Brock Purdy connected with George Kittle on an outstanding 33-yard completion, setting up a 25-yard field goal by Gay. The 49ers entered the locker room with a 10-8 edge.

Third Quarter: Defense Creates Opportunities

The third quarter was dominated by San Francisco's opportunistic defense. When Cleveland attempted a trick play featuring a direct snap to Fannin Jr., the tight end mishandled the exchange, allowing the 49ers to recover at Cleveland's 32-yard line.

San Francisco meticulously advanced down the field, with McCaffrey carrying the bulk of the load. Although the drive stalled near the goal line, Purdy showcased his agility by scrambling left for a 2-yard touchdown run, extending the lead to 17-8. This rushing score exemplified Purdy's development as a dual-threat quarterback in his third NFL season.

Fourth Quarter: 49ers Pull Away

In the fourth quarter, San Francisco completely asserted their dominance. After recovering yet another Cleveland fumble, the 49ers capitalized when Purdy found Jauan Jennings for a 7-yard touchdown pass. Jennings, enjoying his most productive NFL season to date, made a critical reception amid tight coverage, extending the lead to 23-8.

Sanders endeavored to initiate a comeback for Cleveland by completing passes to Jeudy and Fannin Jr., but the 49ers' defense tightened when it mattered most. A late field goal ultimately secured a 26-8 victory for San Francisco.

Looking Ahead

This victory elevates San Francisco’s record to 9-4 and extends their winning streak to three games, firmly entrenching them in playoff contention within the competitive NFC. McCaffrey's continued excellence (74 total yards and a touchdown) and Purdy's efficient performance (168 passing yards and a rushing touchdown) indicate that this team is gaining momentum at an opportune time.

For Cleveland, now 3-9, the loss is disheartening, yet Sanders demonstrated ongoing growth with 149 passing yards and a touchdown. Judkins remained effective, rushing for 91 yards, suggesting that the Browns possess promising building blocks for the future.

The 49ers will seek to maintain their surge in the next matchup, while Cleveland will aim to recover and finish the season strongly as they assess their young talent in preparation for 2026.