In a thrilling Sunday Night Football showdown, the San Francisco 49ers bounced back from a disappointing loss the previous week to the Kansas City Chiefs, overcoming a halftime deficit to defeat the Dallas Cowboys 30-24. The game featured a remarkable third-quarter performance from quarterback Brock Purdy, who led the Niners with three scoring drives that transformed a 10-6 halftime disadvantage into a commanding 27-10 lead.
Purdy, who had struggled the week prior with three interceptions, showed resilience and poise against the Cowboys. After a shaky first half, he completed 18 of 26 passes for 260 yards, including a touchdown pass to tight end George Kittle and a rushing touchdown of his own. His turnaround was pivotal in the 21-0 blitz during the third quarter, a stretch that proved decisive for the Niners (4-4) as they headed into their bye week.
The Niners opened the second half with a methodical 60-yard drive, capped off by rookie Isaac Guerendo’s 4-yard touchdown run. Shortly after, defensive back Deommodore Lenoir’s interception set the stage for Purdy’s 2-yard touchdown pass to Kittle, who finished the night with six catches for an impressive 128 yards. Purdy then capped the scoring on the Niners’ next drive with a 2-yard quarterback sneak, putting San Francisco ahead by 17 points.
Despite the 49ers’ dominant third quarter, the Cowboys (3-4) mounted a late comeback attempt. Dak Prescott, who completed 25 of 38 passes for 243 yards, connected with CeeDee Lamb for two fourth-quarter touchdowns, bringing the game to a tense 30-24. However, with just over three minutes remaining, Prescott was unable to capitalize on a final opportunity, throwing four consecutive incompletions after the Cowboys regained possession.
Dallas returned from their bye week with high hopes but struggled to find rhythm throughout the game, resembling their prior dismal performance against the Detroit Lions. Prescott’s two interceptions marked the third consecutive game with multiple turnovers, a troubling trend for a quarterback who has been under increasing scrutiny. Lamb shone amidst the struggle, catching 13 passes for 146 yards, but it wasn’t enough to secure a victory.
This win is significant for the 49ers as they look to build momentum going into the second half of the season. Historically, San Francisco has found success after its Week 9 bye, going 16-2 over the last two seasons and making deep playoff runs. The victory against Dallas not only restores confidence in Purdy but also reinforces the team’s potential as they aim for a strong finish in the NFC.
As both teams head in opposite directions, the 49ers will hope to carry this energy into their bye week, while the Cowboys face increasing pressure on head coach Mike McCarthy and the need to find solutions for their offensive inconsistencies. With the playoffs looming, every game becomes crucial, and the stakes will only rise as the season progresses.
