Game grades, analysis from 49ers division-clinching win over Seahawks

49ers Offensive Grades vs. Seahawks

Quarterback

Brock Purdy was dealing with an oblique injury from the previous week’s win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and it seemed to impact his ability to drive the ball in the pocket.

However, that potential caveat aside, Purdy continued to exceed expectations as a rookie starter taken in the seventh round. His game was largely faciliatory, with the Niners offense giving him openings that he could operate with. When the Seahawks busted on coverage, Purdy was able to take advantage of it with two touchdown passes to George Kittle.

And then, with the game on the line late, Purdy was able to convert on 3rd-and-1.

The biggest issue for Purdy was a near-interception that safety Quandre Diggs was unable to bring in. The quarterback telegraphed the pass the entire way through, and it was a brief reminder that Purdy is going to go through his rookie issues.

But if this is the standard of play San Francisco should expect, it won’t miss a beat.

Grade: B-

Running Backs

Christian McCaffrey was the difference-maker on offense for the 49ers. He finished with 108 yards on 26 carries, but it was his constant ability to churn yards.

That doesn’t even begin to mention his impact on the passing game. From being an available outlet to the sheer attention he received, McCaffrey’s 30 yards on six receptions do not do justice to how impactful he was.

Much like the 49ers turnaround this season, it all started with CMC.

Bonus points to rookie Jordan Mason, who iced the game with two tough-nosed runs, including a 55-yard burst that nearly scored.

Grade: A

Wide Receivers

The Niners’ receivers were not nearly as impressive this game, but that was also a byproduct of the game plan in general.

Jauan Jennings had 31 yards with some critical third-down receptions, and Ray-Ray McCloud was able to convert one third down as well. But Brandon Aiyuk, in taking over as WR1 without Deebo Samuel, had only two catches for 19 yards, including a brutal drop that would have continued a drive that ended with kicker Robbie Gould missing a field goal.

Grade: C+

Tight Ends

Kittle re-emerged as the focal point for San Francisco’s passing attack, and while his yards largely came off coverage busts with smart plays, 93 yards on four receptions with two touchdowns, that’ll play.

Even backup tight end Tyler Kroft had a nice catch late.

Grade: A+

Offensive Line

The 49ers offensive line was effective if not overpowering. The Seahawks were able to get some push on a few plays, but it never felt like the Niners were unable to control the trenches.

That said, with the Seahawks ranking towards the very bottom defending against the run coming into the game, it was more disappointing to see the results not favor a much more dominant San Francisco rushing attack.

Grade: B