SANTA CLARA, Calif. _ Two franchises that faced off in two thrilling Super Bowl matchups delivered a sensational mid-season showdown at Levi’s Stadium. The Bengals emerged victorious with a 31-17 win over the NFC powerhouse San Francisco, propelled by the exceptional performance of Pro Bowl quarterback Joe Burrow, reminiscent of Joe Montana.
Burrow dismantled the top-ranked 49ers defense with a remarkable completion percentage of 87.5, completing 28 of 32 passes for 286 yards and touchdown throws to three different receivers.
Local product Joe Mixon sealed the game with a five-yard touchdown run, dancing into the end zone and contributing a season-high 87 rushing yards on 16 carries.
Wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase recorded his third 100-yard game of the season, hauling in 10 catches for 100 yards. Burrow himself showcased his versatility with 43 rushing yards. Despite playing through an ankle injury, Pro Bowl right end Trey Hendrickson secured the victory with a sack strip.
While the 49ers’ linebackers have received much acclaim, it was the Bengals’ linebackers who made a statement on Fred Warner and Dre Greenlaw’s home turf. Logan Wilson and Germaine Pratt intercepted 49ers QB Brock Purdy on consecutive throws in the second half. Although Purdy racked up 365 passing yards, the Bengals’ timely defensive plays stifled him, handing him his first home loss in nine career starts.
The pivotal second interception occurred early in the fourth quarter, with the Bengals leading 17-10. Purdy’s attempt to pass over the middle to Brandon Aiyuk was intercepted by Wilson, who recorded his 10th career interception, the most by any NFL linebacker in the 2020s.
On the ensuing play, Burrow capitalized on the interception, delivering a beautiful 17-yard touchdown pass to Ja’Marr Chase, extending the Bengals’ lead to 24-10.
In the first series of the second half, Burrow showcased his scrambling ability with a 20-yard run up the middle. This set up Evan McPherson’s 56-yard field goal, giving the Bengals a 17-10 advantage.
The Bengals’ red-zone defense continued to shine, denying the 49ers any points on a series inside the 20-yard line late in the third quarter. With Purdy scrambling towards the sideline, he attempted to dump the ball off to Elijah Mitchell, but Bengals linebacker Germaine Pratt tipped and intercepted the pass with a remarkable one-handed grab.
Prior to the game, Burrow had the privilege of meeting 49ers Hall-of-Famer Joe Montana. He then proceeded to play like Montana, leading the Bengals to a 14-10 halftime lead. Burrow completed 21 of 23 passes for 170 yards and two touchdowns, with his last 19 completions setting a new personal record. His precise passing in the middle of the field dismantled the 49ers’ defense.
The Bengals had an opportunity to extend their lead before halftime when they regained possession with 2:54 left. However, a fumble by tight end Irv Smith after a completion to the 5-yard line denied them additional points, despite a dominant offensive performance.
Early in the game, the Bengals showcased a diversified offensive approach with multiple snaps under center. Burrow’s touchdown pass to Tyler Boyd showcased his ability to read the defense and make accurate throws. Burrow’s elusiveness on third-and-ten, evading multiple sacks, exemplified his exceptional awareness. He connected with Tee Higgins for a crucial first down, keeping the drive alive.
In the first half, Burrow completed seven of nine passes for 60 yards and showcased his running ability. Joe Mixon also contributed with a 20-yard run, demonstrating his agility and evasiveness.
The Bengals continued their offensive dominance in the second half, capitalizing on a long kick return by Trayveon Williams. Their efficient play on first down and a 22-yard completion to Tyler Boyd contributed to their 14-7 lead.
In terms of defense, the Bengals contained the 49ers’ potent offense, allowing only a field goal and a touchdown by Christian McCaffrey, who tied the NFL record with a touchdown in his 17th consecutive game. The Bengals limited Purdy to 114 passing yards, with most of his yardage coming in the final seconds. They also held McCaffrey to just 31 rushing yards on six carries.
Despite injuring his ankle, Pro Bowl right end Trey Hendrickson showcased his resilience by returning to the game before halftime.
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