49ers Edge Saints 26-21 in Thrilling Season Opener Behind McCaffrey's Return

The San Francisco 49ers got hard-fought 26-21 victory over the New Orleans Saints at the Superdome on Sunday. The game was missing 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy, while the Saints began their new era under head coach Kellen Moore with sophomore quarterback Spencer Rattler at the helm.

First Quarter: Defensive Battle

Both teams started cautiously in the opening quarter, with neither offense finding the end zone. The Saints had the better field position early, thanks to a spectacular 39-yard deep pass from Rattler to speedster Rashid Shaheed that set up New Orleans in the red zone. However, the 49ers defense, led by All-Pro linebacker Fred Warner and defensive end Nick Bosa, held firm and forced a missed field goal attempt.

San Francisco's offense, featuring McCaffrey in his first game action since recovering from injury, moved the ball methodically but couldn't capitalize on their opportunities. The quarter ended scoreless, setting up an exciting battle ahead.

Score after Q1: Saints 0, 49ers 0

Second Quarter: Offensive Explosion

The second quarter brought fireworks as both teams found their rhythm. The 49ers struck first when quarterback Mac Jones connected with tight end Luke Farrell for an 11-yard touchdown pass, capping off an impressive drive. However, kicker Pineiro missed the extra point, leaving San Francisco with just six points.

The Saints responded with their best drive of the game, as Rattler showcased his arm talent with precise passes to veteran receiver Brandin Cooks and tight end Juwan Johnson. The drive culminated in an 18-yard touchdown pass to Johnson in the corner of the end zone, giving New Orleans a 7-6 lead.

Not to be outdone, the 49ers mounted a spectacular two-minute drill. Jones found reliable slot receiver Jauan Jennings for a crucial 29-yard gain, setting up a five-yard touchdown pass to McCaffrey with just 11 seconds remaining. The former All-Pro running back's first touchdown since his return sent the visiting fans into a frenzy.

Score at Halftime: 49ers 13, Saints 7

Third Quarter: Saints Strike Back

New Orleans came out firing in the third quarter, with their defense forcing a crucial fumble that linebacker Demario Davis recovered at the San Francisco 47-yard line. The Saints capitalized immediately, as workhorse running back Alvin Kamara powered his way through the 49ers defense on multiple carries before Rattler found Shaheed for a three-yard touchdown pass.

Kamara was phenomenal throughout the game, rushing for 99 yards on 21 carries while adding 21 receiving yards on six catches. His versatility as both a runner and pass-catcher proved invaluable for the Saints' offensive attack.

San Francisco answered with a field goal to maintain their lead heading into the final quarter.

Score after Q3: 49ers 16, Saints 14

Fourth Quarter: Back-and-Forth Thriller

The fourth quarter delivered non-stop excitement. The 49ers extended their lead when Jones launched a perfect 42-yard touchdown strike to Jennings, who made a spectacular catch in traffic.

The Saints refused to quit, however. Rattler led another impressive scoring drive, finding rookie receiver Devaughn Vele for a three-yard touchdown pass that brought New Orleans within two points at 23-21.

San Francisco managed one more field goal to secure the 26-21 victory, with their defense making crucial stops in the final minutes.

Looking Ahead

This victory gives the 49ers tremendous confidence as McCaffrey showed he's fully healthy, finishing with 55 rushing yards and 52 receiving yards with a touchdown. The Saints, despite the loss, showed promise under their new coaching staff, with Rattler displaying improved decision-making and Kamara remaining elite.

The 49ers will look to build on this momentum, while the Saints return home hoping to bounce back against their upcoming opponent. Both teams showed they'll be competitive forces in 2025.