Overview
- In a 42–38 Week 17 win over the Bears, Purdy went 24-of-33 for 303 yards with three passing touchdowns and added two rushing scores, becoming the first 49ers QB with five total TDs in consecutive games.
- San Francisco has won six straight to reach 12–4 and can clinch the NFC’s top seed with a Week 18 home game against the Seahawks, which would lock in home‑field advantage through the playoffs at Levi’s Stadium.
- Head coach Kyle Shanahan called Purdy an “assassin,” while analysts such as Kurt Warner praised his anticipation and processing; since Week 11 he ranks first in EPA per play and completion percentage among qualifying QBs.
- Left tackle Trent Williams exited with a hamstring injury, positioning Austen Pleasants for a likely first start after a solid run‑blocking grade but shakier pass protection, with Seattle entering ranked eighth in sacks.
- Christian McCaffrey’s heavy workload and back tightness remain watch points, as teammates like right guard Dominick Puni highlight Purdy’s composure, leadership and on‑the‑move playmaking.