49ers Dominate Browns 26-8 with Strong Air Attack in Cleveland

CLEVELAND – The San Francisco 49ers showcased their dominance with a decisive 26-8 victory over the Cleveland Browns on November 26, 2023. The win improved the 49ers’ record to 9-4, while the Browns fell to 3-9. Key performances from quarterback Brock Purdy and the defensive unit highlighted the game, particularly in challenging weather conditions.

Offensive Highlights

Purdy delivered a standout performance, managing to play without turnovers. Despite facing pressure from Browns’ star pass rusher Myles Garrett, who recorded one sack, Purdy effectively led the offense. After the team fell behind 8-7, he steered the 49ers back into the game, completing a crucial 33-yard pass to tight end George Kittle that set up a field goal, giving San Francisco a 10-8 lead at halftime.

In the fourth quarter, Purdy connected with Jauan Jennings for a touchdown, cementing the 49ers’ lead. Notably, Kyle Juszczyk achieved his 300th career reception in the first quarter, marking a significant milestone in the game.

The running game, while not as explosive, still contributed to the overall performance. Purdy’s own 2-yard touchdown run against Garrett late in the third quarter helped to extend the lead to 17-8. Christian McCaffrey was instrumental, scoring his eighth touchdown in as many games, but he acknowledged room for improvement, finishing with 53 yards on 20 carries.

Defensive Standouts

The 49ers’ defense was equally impressive, earning high marks for their performance. They limited Browns’ quarterback Shedeur Sanders to just 149 passing yards while recording three sacks. Sanders struggled early, missing an opportunity for a touchdown when he overthrew an open Jerry Jeudy on the first drive of the game.

Despite allowing 94 rushing yards in the first half, the defense adjusted and held the Browns to 138 yards overall. Critical fourth-down stops were pivotal, including a key play where Malik Mustapha and Jordan Elliott halted a run at the 49ers’ 21-yard line in the first quarter.

Another significant moment occurred when Luke Gifford recovered a botched fourth-and-1 snap, which helped propel the 49ers into a scoring spree that effectively sealed the game.

Special Teams and Coaching

The special teams unit also made impactful contributions. Skyy Moore delivered a career-long 66-yard punt return, setting the stage for the 49ers’ first touchdown. Additionally, Darrell Luter Jr. recovered a muffed punt, leading to Jennings’ touchdown in the fourth quarter. Kicker Matt Gay maintained perfect accuracy, successfully converting two field goals in the game.

Head coach Kyle Shanahan effectively managed the game despite several challenges, including a short week following a Monday night game and inclement weather conditions with temperatures around 35 degrees Fahrenheit and winds at 20 mph. Shanahan’s adjustments at halftime proved beneficial, as the 49ers shut out the Browns in the second half, a feat they had not accomplished since 2023.

As the 49ers prepare for their upcoming bye week, they stand poised with four games remaining in the regular season, looking ahead to what is expected to be their fourth playoff appearance in five years.