The San Francisco 49ers saw their impressive 15-game regular-season winning streak end on Sunday against the Cleveland Browns.
Playing with a backup quarterback in P.J. Walker, the Browns managed to get a scrappy 17-19 win thanks to big plays on the defensive end of the ball and by taking advantage of the 49ers’ mistakes. Cleveland improved to a 3-2 record to remain in a crowded race for a playoff spot in the AFC North.
The Browns did a great job in making 49ers’ quarterback Brock Purdy uncomfortable for the entire game. Purdy, who was undefeated in his first 10 regular-season games as a pro, finished with only 125 passing yards and one touchdown while throwing an interception.
The biggest moment of the game came in the final two minutes. The 49ers advanced the ball to Cleveland’s 23-yard line to set up a game-winning 41-yard field goal attempt. However, their standout kicker Jake Moody missed the kick, prompting a huge celebration on the Browns’ sideline.
The Browns will feel good about the win, especially considering that they got it without playing well on the offense. That is expected to change next week when they get their starting quarterback Deshaun Watson back.
“The truth is, we’re a good football team,” said Browns coach Kevin Stefanski after the game. “We’re not perfect, we know that. But we fought like crazy, and I’m just proud of so many guys.”
