49ers Dominate Browns 26-8 in Windy Cleveland Showdown

CLEVELAND – The San Francisco 49ers secured a decisive victory against the Cleveland Browns on October 15, 2023, with a score of 26-8. This win improves the 49ers’ record to 9-4, while the Browns fall to 3-9. The game showcased the 49ers’ resilience, particularly in challenging weather conditions marked by strong winds and low temperatures.

Offensive Highlights

Brock Purdy delivered a standout performance, playing without turnovers. He deftly navigated the pressure from Myles Garrett, the Browns’ star pass rusher, who managed to sack Purdy once, bringing his season total to 19. After initially trailing 8-7, Purdy’s aggression paid off as he led the team to a field goal, putting the 49ers ahead 10-8 at halftime. His most impressive play came when he connected with George Kittle for a 33-yard completion, setting the stage for a pivotal score.

Purdy also passed to Jauan Jennings for a touchdown early in the fourth quarter, solidifying the 49ers’ lead. Additionally, Kyle Juszczyk marked a personal milestone with his 300th career reception in the game’s opening play, followed by another reception on Purdy’s first pass after the break.

Running Game Performance

The 49ers’ running game was rated slightly lower, at a B-. Purdy’s own 2-yard touchdown run contributed to the team’s scoring, but overall, the running attack struggled to break through, with no carries exceeding nine yards. Christian McCaffrey, who scored his eighth touchdown in as many games, finished with 53 yards on 20 carries, marking his fourth game this season under 3 yards per carry. Brian Robinson added 26 yards on eight carries.

Defensive Efforts

On the defensive side, the 49ers excelled, earning an A rating. The Browns’ quarterback, Shedeur Sanders, faced a challenging debut, throwing for only 149 yards on 16 completions. He was sacked three times, including two by Clelin Ferrell and one by Keion White. The 49ers’ defense was particularly effective in containing the Browns’ ground game, which totaled 138 yards, led by Quinshon Judkins with 91 yards on 23 carries.

Two crucial fourth-down stops by the 49ers’ defense helped stifle the Browns’ momentum. Malik Mustapha and Jordan Elliott successfully halted a run at the 49ers’ 21-yard line, while Luke Gifford recovered a fumbled snap, turning the tide for San Francisco in the second half.

Special Teams and Coaching

San Francisco’s special teams were also impressive, receiving an A grade. Skyy Moore’s career-long 66-yard punt return set up an early touchdown, while a penalty on the Browns allowed the 49ers to capitalize on a two-point conversion. Darrell Luter Jr.’s recovery of a muffed punt further contributed to a scoring opportunity. Matt Gay successfully converted two field goals, continuing his strong performance as a replacement for the injured Eddy Piñeiro.

Head coach Kyle Shanahan kept his team focused despite the potential distractions of a short week, weather challenges, and an upcoming bye week. Defensive coordinator Robert Saleh adjusted strategies effectively after halftime, implementing more physical play that resulted in a second-half shutout—the first for the 49ers since 2023.

With four games remaining in the regular season, the 49ers are poised for what could be their fourth playoff appearance in five years, showcasing both talent and determination on the field.