NFL5 hours ago2 minute read

49ers Edge Commanders 23-17 to Stay Perfect Despite Evans Injury

San Francisco moved to 6-0 after holding off a Washington comeback, but an Achilles injury to Mike Evans casts a cloud over the win.

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Holding on at the goal line

The San Francisco 49ers stayed unbeaten on Monday night, but their 23-17 victory against the Washington Commanders proved far harder than expected. San Francisco built a 20-3 lead by halftime before Washington fought back from the 20 point deficit.

The Commanders came within inches of pulling off the upset late in the fourth quarter. Safety Malik Mustapha kept the 49ers ahead with a fourth down pass breakup at the goal line. Moments later, Romello Height and Keion White teamed up for a clinching sack to seal the win.

Injuries pile up for Purdy

The win came with a major concern after wide receiver Mike Evans went down following a 16 yard reception. Evans attempted to play through a sore right Achilles, but he hobbled to the locker room and did not return. The 49ers were already missing wideouts Ricky Pearsall, De'Zhaun Stribling, Demarcus Robinson, and Christian Kirk. That left quarterback Brock Purdy working with Brandin Cooks, Jordan Watkins, and Jacob Cowing. Wide receivers other than Evans finished with just two catches for 35 yards.

Purdy still delivered a historic milestone. On his fifth throw of the opening drive, he reached 1,500 career pass attempts, making him the highest rated passer among qualified quarterbacks in league history. Purdy finished 21 of 29 for 264 yards and one touchdown, adding 28 rushing yards on five carries. Christian McCaffrey carried a heavier load as well, posting 25 touches for 117 scrimmage yards and two touchdowns while losing one fumble.

Special teams issues and Washington fight

Washington quarterback Jayden Daniels gave the 49ers trouble throughout the second half. Daniels completed 29 of 40 passes for 300 yards and two touchdowns to spark the rally.

San Francisco also made life harder on itself with poor special teams play. Cowing muffed a punt inside the five yard line, and kicker Eddy Pineiro missed an extra point. Pineiro now has three missed extra points and three missed field goals this season. His six total missed kicks are the most in the NFL.

What it means for the next game

San Francisco now turns its attention to an upcoming road trip against Atlanta while monitoring the health of its receiver room.

San Francisco 49ers at Atlanta Falcons (NFL, Sun, 25 Oct): Atlanta Falcons win 34%, San Francisco 49ers win 66%; projected score Atlanta Falcons 22, San Francisco 49ers 27. Our safest pick: 49ers to win.