Unlock the Shocking Truth Behind [Article Topic] That No One Saw Coming

So here we are again, watching Brock Purdy trot onto the field with all the promise in the world, only to come away wondering—what’s really going on behind that helmet? The San Francisco 49ers eked out a 20-9 win over the Panthers, but if you’re like me, you couldn’t help but notice the uneasy flicker of inconsistency in Purdy’s game. Sure, he nailed those short passes like a craftsman, but when it came to stretching the field… well, let’s just say the results were less inspiring. Three interceptions on deep throws? Ouch. And with injuries shadowing his every move this season, you start asking yourself: Is it just a rough patch, or is this young quarterback’s health quietly unraveling his potential? Meanwhile, Kyle Shanahan’s got a fantastic backup in Mac Jones who’s been shining bright — so should the Niners be patient and play the hot hand, or risk riding Purdy back into the fray before he’s truly ready? It feels like a delicate balancing act with the franchise’s future hanging in the balance—and trust me, that’s a story worth digging into.

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - AUGUST 23: Brock Purdy #13 of the San Francisco 49ers stands on the field before the NFL Preseason 2025 game between Los Angeles Chargers and San Francisco 49ers at Levi's Stadium on August 23, 2025 in Santa Clara, California. — (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

The San Francisco 49ers got the job done against the Carolina Panthers. However, Brock Purdy‘s performance in the win still left plenty to be desired in the 20-9 home win.

Purdy, who has been dealing with injuries this season, was fairly erratic for most of the game. As shown by ESPN insights on X, that was particularly the case in downfield passes.

“Brock Purdy was better on short passes than stretching the field. Brock Purdy completed 92% of his passes shorter than 10 yards and his only Pass TD of the game. He was 1-of-8 with 3 interceptions on throws at least 10 yards downfield,” via ESPN Insights.

Brock Purdy was better on short passes than stretching the field.

Brock Purdy completed 92% of his passes shorter than 10 yards and his only Pass TD of the game. He was 1-of-8 with 3 interceptions on throws at least 10 yards downfield. #MNFInsights pic.twitter.com/MXu2ivi9DQ

— ESPN Insights (@ESPNInsights) November 25, 2025

All in all, Purdy finished the game with 23 completions on 32 passes for 193 yards, one touchdown, and three picks. He also had six carries for 16 yards.

The Niners’ vertical passing game wasn’t much of a factor in this game, and while the Panthers’ defense deserves plenty of credit for that, it could still be a concern going forward. The young quarterback hasn’t been able to stay healthy, and it might be messing up his game.

Kyle Shanahan’s team has one of the best backup quarterbacks in the game. Mac Jones did an outstanding job as Purdy’s replacement, and it wouldn’t be much of a surprise to see him turn back to him if Purdy shows any signs of an injury setback.

This team will continue to roll behind the quarterback they committed all that money to in the offseason, but that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t explore their options right now. There’s no need to rush him back to the field if he’s not 100% healthy, given the way Jones has played this season. There’s just too much at stake, and they must continue to ride the hot hand here.

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