Christian McCaffrey Shines as 49ers Defeat Panthers 20-9
Christian McCaffrey Shines as 49ers
Defeat Panthers 20–9 on Monday
Night Football
In a night filled with emotions and professionalism, Christian McCaffrey led the San Francisco 49ers to a 20–9 victory over his former team, the Carolina Panthers, on Monday Night Football. It was McCaffrey’s first meeting with the franchise that drafted him in 2017.
“It’s Just Business,” Says McCaffrey
“When it comes to playing in this league, you have to approach each week the same way,” McCaffrey said after the game. “When you see familiar faces, it’s good to say hello — but once the ball is snapped, it’s just business.”
McCaffrey delivered a vintage performance, totaling 142 yards from scrimmage and scoring a key touchdown that helped seal the win. The 29-year-old now has over 50 receiving yards in 50 career games — joining only Larry Centers and Marshall Faulk in NFL history, according to NFL Research.
Brock Purdy Struggles, but 49ers Hold Firm
While the 49ers claimed victory, the performance wasn’t flawless. Quarterback Brock Purdy threw three first-half interceptions, though the Panthers managed just three points from those turnovers.
“It’s just about executing better throws,” Purdy said postgame. “I left the ball in the air too long on a few of them.” He finished 23-of-32 for 193 yards, one touchdown, and three picks.
Despite offensive struggles, San Francisco leaned on McCaffrey’s versatility. He tallied 89 rushing yards and 53 receiving, improving the 49ers’ record to 8–4 and boosting their playoff chances to 86% according to the NFL.
Panthers Falter Behind Bryce Young
Carolina’s rookie quarterback Bryce Young finished 18-of-29 for 169 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions. After the game, Young took accountability, saying, “We didn’t execute well enough. That’s on me.”
Late-Game Tensions Boil Over
In the closing seconds, tempers flared as Panthers safety Tre’Von Moehrig hit 49ers receiver Jauan Jennings in the groin. Jennings retaliated by striking Moehrig in the head before being restrained by teammates.
“The guy took a cheap shot,” said coach Kyle Shanahan. “I was proud of Jauan for not completely losing it.” Moehrig later admitted he might face a fine for his actions.
Book NFL Game Flights on TicketFlyAirStat Highlights
- Christian McCaffrey – 89 rushing yards, 53 receiving yards, 1 touchdown
- Brock Purdy – 193 passing yards, 1 TD, 3 INTs
- Bryce Young – 169 passing yards, 1 TD, 2 INTs
- 49ers total yards: 347 | Panthers total yards: 262
What’s Next
The 49ers will look to extend their momentum against the Seattle Seahawks next week, while the Panthers, now 5–7, face a must-win scenario to stay alive in the NFC South playoff race.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Christian McCaffrey join the 49ers?
He was traded from the Carolina Panthers to San Francisco in October 2022.
How many total yards did McCaffrey have in this game?
He recorded 142 total yards (89 rushing, 53 receiving) and one touchdown.
What is San Francisco’s current record?
The 49ers improved to 8–4, maintaining strong playoff odds in the NFC West.