Seattle (Diya TV) – In what was quite the dramatic season opener, the San Francisco 49ers edged out the Seattle Seahawks 17-13 to steal a game in enemy territory. After a string of special teams mistakes and offensive stagnation, the Niners’ final drive ended up being the decisive one with backup tight end Jake Tonges hauling in a four yard touchdown from quarterback Brock Purdy, the UC Berkeley alum’s first career score.

But that wasn’t the only clutch moment from this game. Edge rusher Nick Bosa sealed the win in the last minute by stripping Sam Darnold, forcing a fumble that ended Seattle’s final push. In the first game of defensive coordinator Robert Saleh’s return, it was a showcase. 

Offensive Highs

Purdy finished with 277 passing yards, tossing two touchdowns but also a pair of interceptions. He fell into a habit of forcing throws and this would come back to bite him. However, he pulled it together for the final offensive drive and showed composure under pressure.

Running back Christian McCaffrey was a force on the ground and through the air, tallying a combined 142 yards despite battling a calf issue. Rookie WR Ricky Pearsall emerged as Purdy’s favorite target with 108 receiving yards, leading all San Francisco receivers.

Defensive Standouts & Special Teams Woes

The 49ers defense, helmed by the aforementioned Saleh, delivered a standout performance. Seattle was limited to a measly 4.6 yards per play and some well-timed blitzes led to game-altering plays from linebackers Fred Warner and Dee Winters, as well as cornerbacks Deomoddore Lenoir and Renardo Green.

However, this game highlighted some lingering struggles with the 49ers special teams unit. Kicker Jake Moody had a rough go with a missed field goal (from just 27 yards) and a blocked attempt. Despite the mishaps, head coach Kyle Shanahan confided in the 2023 3rd round pick.

 

Up Next

The 49ers take a trip down south to the Big Easy in Week 2 to take on the New Orleans Saints. NOLA faced a divisional foe of San Francisco in Week 1 as they fell to the Arizona Cardinals 20-13. While the trip to the East Coast could prove difficult, momentum is on their side and it will be a golden opportunity for the 49ers to start 2-0 against NFC competition.