McCaffrey and Kittle Power 49ers Past Cardinals 41–22

The San Francisco 49ers entered this matchup with a record of 6–4, striving to affirm their status as one of the premier teams in the NFC. Conversely, the Arizona Cardinals, with a record of 2–7, were aiming to demonstrate their ability to compete against a Super Bowl contender and instill optimism for the remainder of their season. With star running back Christian McCaffrey returning to action and quarterback Brock Purdy rejoining the lineup, the 49ers executed a formidable, balanced offensive strategy to defeat Arizona 41–22, elevating their record to 7–4 while the Cardinals fell to 3–7.

First Quarter: Fireworks Right Away

The game erupted into action from the outset. Following the kickoff from Arizona, 49ers return specialist Shepherd Moore burst down the field with a spectacular 98-yard return, culminating at the Cardinals' 1-yard line. On the very next play, McCaffrey powered through, benefiting from the blocking of his right guard, to score a touchdown. A mere 13 seconds into the game, the 49ers found themselves with a commanding 7–0 lead.

In response, Arizona orchestrated a methodical drive, led by quarterback Jacoby Brissett, who distributed passes to Michael Wilson and tight end Trey McBride. However, the Cardinals' momentum faltered, and they were forced to punt.

Purdy then began to demonstrate precisely why the 49ers were eager to have him back. He connected with Jauan Jennings on a deep completion, later finding running back Brian Robinson Jr., and ultimately delivered a 30-yard strike to tight end George Kittle in the end zone for another touchdown. Although the extra point attempt was blocked, the 49ers still surged ahead 13–0.

Arizona countered decisively. Running back Zonovan “Bam” Knight exhibited determination as he ran hard, and Brissett complemented this effort with a series of short passes, culminating in a 6-yard touchdown run from Knight. After successfully converting the extra point, the score stood at 13–7, signaling that the Cardinals were still in contention.

Second Quarter: 49ers Take Control

Early in the second quarter, the 49ers leaned once more on their star athletes. McCaffrey showcased his strength running inside, then deftly maneuvered out of the backfield to catch a pass. Purdy found him on the run, resulting in a 9-yard touchdown reception. Although the extra point attempt was unsuccessful, San Francisco extended their lead to 19–7.

Brissett orchestrated a lengthy response drive characterized by connections with Dortch and McBride, but the 49ers' defense held firm in the red zone—the critical area within the 20-yard line—resulting in the Cardinals settling for a short field goal that brought the score to 19–10.

Displaying poise, Purdy connected with Kittle over the middle and utilized McCaffrey and Robinson to advance into field goal territory. Kicker Eddy Pineiro successfully converted a 48-yard attempt, and after a late defensive stop, he struck again from 47 yards, just as time expired in the half. The 49ers left the field at halftime with a comfortable 25–10 lead, demonstrating offensive rhythm while their defense bent but did not break.

Third Quarter: Kittle Strikes Again

Entering the third quarter, the 49ers maintained their aggressive pace. After an initial drive stalled, Pineiro successfully kicked his third field goal of the evening, increasing the score to 28–10.

Arizona then embarked on one of their most efficient drives of the night. Brissett delivered deep passes to Wilson and McBride, employing rapid throws and a no-huddle approach to exhaust the 49ers' defense. However, a throw toward the sideline was intercepted by a 49ers cornerback, who swiftly returned the ball deep into Cardinals territory.

San Francisco capitalized effectively. Robinson's running set up a first-and-goal situation, and Purdy once again connected with Kittle on a short route for yet another touchdown. With the successful extra point, the 49ers expanded their lead to 35–10, appearing to be firmly in control of the game.

Fourth Quarter: Cardinals Rally, 49ers Finish

As the fourth quarter commenced, Brissett and the Cardinals demonstrated commendable resilience. He distributed passes among Xavier Weaver, Emari Demercado, Michael Carter, and ultimately McBride, who snagged a short pass over the middle and powered into the end zone. The Cardinals attempted a two-point conversion from the two-yard line, but Knight was thwarted, leaving the score at 35–16.

In an effort to regain possession, the Cardinals attempted an onside kick, a brief kickoff intended for the kicking team to recover. However, the ball traveled just 11 yards, allowing 49ers fullback Kyle Juszczyk to secure the opportunity and provide San Francisco with advantageous field position.

From there, McCaffrey took charge. He caught a short pass, executed a powerful 20-yard run up the middle, and subsequently dashed to the right side for another rushing touchdown. Although the attempt for a two-point conversion was unsuccessful, the 49ers now led 41–16.

The Cardinals mounted one final impressive drive. Brissett connected with Greg Dortch on several short routes before launching a deep pass to Dortch for a 17-yard touchdown. Another attempt for a two-point conversion was unsuccessful, maintaining the score at 41–22. The 49ers recovered yet another onside kick, after which they methodically ran out the clock, primarily relying on Robinson and backup quarterback Mac Jones to take knees.

What the Win Means

For the 49ers, this 41–22 victory serves as a significant indicator that their offense has regained its potency. McCaffrey's three touchdowns, combined with Kittle's pivotal contributions in the passing game, highlight how formidable they can be when their key players are performing at their best. With a record of 7–4, San Francisco remains a strong contender in the NFC playoff race and aims to build upon this momentum in their upcoming match.

For the Cardinals, the fall to 3–7 is disappointing, yet there were noteworthy aspects to their performance. Brissett exhibited resilience, McBride emerged as a primary target, and Wilson and Dortch made significant plays throughout the game. Arizona will look to rectify penalties and inefficiencies in the red zone as they prepare for their next opponent while continuing to develop their young core.