In the second half, Purdy and Co. settled down, extending their lead with an 80-yard touchdown drive in the early stages of the third quarter. Christian McCaffrey was the one to find the end zone at that juncture, scoring from 12 yards out against his former team as he squared off against them for the first time since being traded in 2022.

Here is how the 49ers (8-4) graded in Monday night’s 20-9 home win over (6-6): PASS OFFENSE: D+. Interceptions on three consecutive drives?

Panthers S Tre'von Moehrig punched 49ers WR Jauan Jennings in the groin at the end of Monday's loss. A scuffle ensued. Moehrig explained his actions.

Shanahan said he never considered replacing Purdy with Mac Jones, while Purdy said his toe injury was not a factor in the interceptions.

The 49ers (8-4) overcame three interceptions off Brock Purdy and posted a 20-9 victory over the Carolina Panthers (6-6).

Panthers safety Tre'von Moehrig expects to be fined after punching 49ers wide receiver Jauan Jennings after a fourth-quarter play on Monday.

If the 49ers make the playoffs McCaffrey might start to feel the effects of the 400-plus touches he’s on pace for, but that’s a concern for down the road.

In the modern NFL, safety play is destiny. If Brown has leveled up alongside the equally violent Malik Mustapha, the Niners suddenly have a duo that can wreck game plans. If San Francisco makes a run, it starts with these two.