**49ers Edge Out Bucs 23-20: 5 Takeaways**

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Post on Nov 11, 2024

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49ers Edge Out Bucs 23-20: 5 Takeaways

The San Francisco 49ers held off a late Tampa Bay Buccaneers comeback to secure a hard-fought 23-20 victory in Week 14. The game was a thrilling back-and-forth affair, leaving fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle. Here are five key takeaways from this crucial NFC matchup:

1. Brock Purdy Proves His Mettle

The rookie quarterback, Brock Purdy, continues to impress. Stepping into the starting role after injuries to Trey Lance and Jimmy Garoppolo, Purdy showed poise and confidence against a tough Buccaneers defense. He completed 16 of 27 passes for 185 yards and two touchdowns, including a crucial 52-yard strike to Deebo Samuel in the second quarter. Purdy also displayed his mobility, scrambling for 37 yards and showcasing an ability to extend plays outside the pocket.

2. 49ers Defense Stifles Tom Brady

The 49ers defense played a crucial role in the victory, effectively containing the legendary Tom Brady. They forced two interceptions, one by Tashaun Gipson and another by Charvarius Ward, and limited the Buccaneers' offense to just 20 points. The 49ers' ability to pressure Brady, who finished the game with just 253 passing yards and two touchdowns, proved to be a key factor in the game's outcome.

3. Deebo Samuel Remains a Weapon

Deebo Samuel continues to be a dynamic force for the 49ers. He caught five passes for 115 yards and a touchdown, proving to be a constant threat both as a receiver and a rusher. His versatility and big-play ability are invaluable to the San Francisco offense.

4. Bucs Fight Back But Fall Short

While the Buccaneers ultimately fell short, they showed resilience and determination. They trailed 17-0 at halftime but rallied back in the second half, outscoring the 49ers 20-6. Leonard Fournette had a strong performance, rushing for 106 yards and a touchdown. However, the late comeback effort wasn't enough to overcome the 49ers' early lead.

5. Playoff Implications

This victory has significant implications for the 49ers' playoff hopes. They now sit at 9-4 and in prime position to secure a playoff berth. The Buccaneers, on the other hand, fall to 6-7 and face an uphill battle to make the postseason. This win could be a turning point for the 49ers, solidifying their status as a legitimate contender in the NFC.

This game proved that the 49ers are a team to be reckoned with, and the emergence of Brock Purdy adds another layer of excitement to their season. As they head into the final stretch of the regular season, the 49ers will be looking to continue their strong play and build momentum for a deep playoff run.