The debate over whether Brock Purdy deserves a record-breaking contract extension won’t be settled today. However, when the San Francisco 49ers needed him most, Purdy delivered a near-flawless performance.
In Sunday’s 38-13 victory over the Chicago Bears, Purdy played like a true superstar. With precision in his throws and the confidence that fuels the 49ers’ best moments, Purdy dismantled the Bears’ defense.
To start the game, Purdy led a clinical five-play, 70-yard touchdown drive. He completed all four of his passes, including a 31-yard screen to George Kittle while evading a blitz, and finished the drive with a touchdown pass to Jauan Jennings.
His dominance continued throughout the first half, arguably his best performance of the season. Against the Bears’ eighth-ranked defense, Purdy racked up 258 yards and two touchdowns before halftime.
He finished the game with 325 passing yards, two touchdowns, and a season-high 145.4 passer rating.
Kyle Shanahan Praises Purdy’s Performance
Brock Purdy throws a pass during the second half against the Chicago Bears
After the game, head coach Kyle Shanahan shared his thoughts on Purdy’s outstanding display.
“…He’s been battling, been awesome in practice. He’s been great in the meetings and I was real happy for him today because it seemed like he played his ass off. He was decisive in everything he did and is always a competitor.”
Purdy’s decisiveness was especially evident on the Bears’ side of the field. He completed 91% of his passes for 156 yards and two touchdowns in opponent territory, helping the team score on five of six red zone opportunities. Their 83% efficiency in the red zone was remarkable against the Bears’ top-rated red zone defense.
Reflecting on the offensive turnaround, Purdy credited a simplified approach and a renewed mindset.
Purdy’s Pre-Game Message to the Team
Brock Purdy looks on during warmups before a game against the Seattle Seahawks
Ahead of the game, Purdy addressed the team, delivering a motivational speech that set the tone for their performance.
“I was just trying to keep it real and remind guys this isn’t easy. This job isn’t for everybody, but who we have in this building, we have what it takes,” Purdy said. “We’ve shown that the last couple years, and we’ve just got to dig deep and find ourselves. I think we did, I think guys responded to it.”
Purdy admitted that his message wasn’t just for his teammates but for himself as well.
“Really I was just talking to myself too, not just trying to preach to the guys, but remind myself of how hard this thing is and how much of a competitor you’ve got to be for four quarters and go and take it. Nothing’s ever given to you. So it was just a reminder to myself and to our teammates of where we’re at and where we’re trying to go, and some other guys spoke. I think we all feel it. We just want to win for each other at this point.”
Looking Ahead to the Rams
The 49ers will need to carry this new mindset into their Thursday night matchup against the Los Angeles Rams. A win would secure the season tiebreaker over Los Angeles and bring San Francisco’s record back to .500. However, a loss could undo all the momentum gained from their dominant Week 13 performance against the Bears.
