Post by : Maya Rahman

Quarterback Brock Purdy made a stellar return for the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday, after missing six games due to a toe injury. The comeback was nothing less than spectacular as he propelled the 49ers to a commanding 41-22 victory over the Arizona Cardinals. Purdy showcased precision and composure, completing 19 of 26 passes for 200 yards and three touchdown passes. This performance pushed the 49ers’ record to 7-4, putting them in a strong position as the NFL season progresses.

The 49ers struck first, taking an early lead even before Purdy had thrown a pass. On the game's initial play, running back Christian McCaffrey dashed for a 1-yard touchdown after a stunning 98-yard kickoff return by Skyy Moore, setting an energetic tone. The defense then forced an Arizona punt, providing Purdy with the opportunity to shine.

Quickly shaking off any rust, Purdy displayed elite quarterbacking as he connected with Jauan Jennings and Demarcus Robinson for significant gains. He soon delivered a 30-yard touchdown completion to a wide-open George Kittle, putting the 49ers up by two scores even with a blocked extra point.

In the second quarter, Purdy kept his momentum, crafting a 9-yard touchdown pass to McCaffrey, marking the running back's second touchdown of the day. Though no additional touchdowns registered before halftime, the 49ers extended their lead with two field goals, heading into halftime with a 25-10 advantage. Their offense flowed seamlessly while the defense stifled Arizona's efforts to regroup.

Later, Purdy found Kittle again in the third quarter, this time for a touchdown that celebrated Kittle's 50th career score. The fans erupted in cheers as the 49ers maintained their commanding lead.

While the Cardinals fought back in the fourth quarter with two touchdowns, it was too late for a comeback. The 49ers quickly rebutted with McCaffrey breaking free for a 20-yard touchdown run, wrapping up a spectacular performance with his third touchdown.

Cardinals quarterback Jacoby Brissett had an outstanding day statistically, going 47 for 57 with 452 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions, setting a new NFL record with his completions. Despite the impressive numbers, the Cardinals slipped to a disappointing 3-7 record. Key contributions from Bam Knight, Michael Wilson, and Trey McBride weren't enough to match the balanced attack of San Francisco.

Purdy's toe injury has plagued him since the opening game and re-aggravated during a Week 4 loss to Jacksonville, leading to an eight-game absence. While backup Mac Jones kept the team stable, head coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed that Purdy would reclaim the starting role the moment he was fit to play.

The 49ers now face a favorable schedule with games against the Carolina Panthers, Cleveland Browns, and Tennessee Titans ahead of a bye week. If Purdy maintains his form from this game, San Francisco stands poised to finish the season vigorously competitive in a challenging NFC West.

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