49ers Overcome Browns 26-8 to Secure Victory and Strengthen Playoff Position

The San Francisco 49ers asserted their dominance in Week 13, defeating the Cleveland Browns 26-8 at Huntington Bank Field. This victory propelled the 49ers to a 9-4 record as they head into their bye week, while the Browns fell to 3-9, despite a promising home debut for rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders. In a matchup defined by challenging weather and opportunistic football, both teams struggled to move the ball consistently, but the 49ers capitalized on critical Browns errors and short fields. San Francisco’s offense, led by quarterback Brock Purdy, delivered a balanced performance, as Purdy completed 16 of 29 passes for 168 yards, threw a touchdown, and ran in another. His composure following a rough outing the previous week was evident, as he avoided turnovers and managed the game efficiently. Purdy’s third-quarter rushing touchdown was a highlight—he celebrated with a Dougie dance, delighting teammates and fans alike. The 49ers’ scoring opened after a 66-yard punt return by Skyy Moore set up a short field, culminating in a 2-yard touchdown run by Christian McCaffrey. Although McCaffrey was limited to 74 scrimmage yards—one of his lowest outputs this season—he remained a steady presence. Purdy added a two-yard rushing touchdown in the third quarter, and connected with Jauan Jennings for a seven-yard score in the fourth, both coming after Browns turnovers deep in their own territory. Special teams and defense played pivotal roles. The 49ers’ special teams not only created explosive plays—such as Moore’s long return—but also recovered a muffed punt by Cleveland’s Gage Larvadain at the Browns’ 18-yard line, directly leading to a touchdown. Defensively, San Francisco’s line recorded three sacks, with Clelin Ferrell notching two and Keion White adding another. The defense held Sanders and the Browns to just 76 second-half yards and forced multiple turnovers on downs. For Cleveland, Shedeur Sanders finished with 149 passing yards, a touchdown, and a 34-yard strike to tight end Harold Fannin Jr. late in the second quarter, momentarily giving the Browns an 8-7 lead after a successful two-point conversion by running back Quinshon Judkins. However, costly mistakes and a failure to convert on key fourth downs left the Browns vulnerable, and the 49ers capitalized on nearly every opportunity. Star pass rusher Myles Garrett continued his historic season with his 19th sack, but it wasn’t enough to turn the tide. Kicker Matt Gay was perfect, converting field goals from 25 and 31 yards to keep the scoreboard ticking for San Francisco. The Browns’ offense, meanwhile, sputtered after halftime, with Judkins leading the ground game at 91 yards but with little support as the 49ers clamped down defensively. With the win, the 49ers retain strong positioning in the NFC playoff race and have a chance to rest before hosting the Tennessee Titans in Week 15. The Browns, still searching for answers in a challenging season, will remain at home to face the Titans next week. For a full statistical breakdown and more highlights, visit CBS Sports’ game recap or check out the official 49ers photo gallery from the matchup.