The San Francisco 49ers, who average 29.6 points per game, were predicted to defeat the Washington Commanders with a score of 38-17. However, by halftime, the 49ers held a narrow 13-10 lead over the Commanders. The 49ers had 10 first downs and 113 total yards, averaging 5.6 yards per play, while the Commanders had 0 first downs and only 7 total yards. Despite an early 10-0 lead for the 49ers after a crafty play call led to their first touchdown, the Commanders managed to tie the game 10-10. The 49ers then struggled in the red zone, leading to a 22-yard field goal from Jake Moody. Sam Howell, Commanders' quarterback, threw a red zone interception, which the 49ers returned for 80 yards. The Commanders' defense, which gives up an average of 30.2 points per game, has been more effective than usual, with Howell performing more like his early-season self.
Tightened it up https://t.co/TSRJIbOWQs
Brock Sturdy! #SFvsWAS on FOX NFL+ // https://t.co/KTh0i4nCVJ https://t.co/swwnI3JQET
There's your Sam Howell red zone INT. And 49ers run it back 80 yards. 49ers can open things up here with a TD
Halftime in Washington: 49ers 13, Commanders 10 QB Sam Howell: 9 of 13, 100 yards, 1 TD WR Terry McLaurin: 4 catches, 61 yards, 1 TD SF QB Brock Purdy: 12 of 16, 116 yards, 1 TD SF RB Christian McCaffrey: 13 carries, 61 yards; 3 catches, 17 yards
Halftime: 49ers 13 Commanders 10 Easily one of the best defensive halves of late/this season despite a depleted secondary. Sam Howell looking more like early season Sam Howell.
49ers take 13-10 lead over Commanders at halftime. https://t.co/jDR9SvlEeo
13 first-half points... with the Commanders getting the ball to start the 2nd half... isn't great 49ers output vs. the worst statistical defense in the league, which has been allowing 30+ points per game
#49ers struggling in the red zone today. Had first down at Washington's 2 and only come away with a 22-yard field goal from Jake Moody. Offense moving it with relative ease but not finishing. It's 13-10 with 19 seconds left in the half.
Eagles are getting some help from Washington, where the Commanders are tied with the 49ers, 10-10. Sam Howell is 9 of 13 for 100 yards and a 3-yard touchdown pass to Terry McLaurin.
Yards so far: 49ers 69 Commanders 100 Yards per play: 49ers 5.4 Commanders 6.6 Big bleah half so far for the 49ers.
Now, watch the 49ers say even screwing around at 10-10 and start targeting the Commanders secondary.
49ers jump out to early 10-0 lead in Washington. https://t.co/qUck5RWa4T
First downs: #49ers: 10 Commanders: 0 Total yards: 49ers: 113 Commanders: 7
The 49ers now lead 10-0 with 1:31 left in the first quarter. They've out-gained the Commanders 113-7 yards and have 10 1st downs while the Commanders are still searching for their first 1st down. San Fran's offense has been on the field for 12:32, while Washington has had all…
Plays so far: 49ers 20 (10 first downs) Commanders 3 (0 first downs) 49ers methodical 5.6 yards per play
Crafty play call from Kyle Shanahan leads to the 49ers' first TD. San Francisco leads 10-0 after two offensive drives. I don't even think this shorthanded Commanders defense has played poorly.
About-24-hours-out prediction: 49ers 38, Commanders 17 49ers average 29.6 points per game, WSH gives up an average of 30.2. Might be some 49ers wobbliness--particularly on D--on a short week and long flight, but the offensive engine should rev up quickly and stay revved up.