Wild Card Weekend: 49ers Shock the Champs, Knock Out Eagles

The San Francisco 49ers achieved a remarkable upset during the Wild Card round, triumphing over the reigning Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles in a fiercely contested playoff matchup. This victory advanced San Francisco to the next stage of the playoffs, albeit at a significant cost, as tight end George Kittle sustained a torn Achilles during the second quarter.

Here’s a detailed account of how the game progressed, quarter by quarter.

First Quarter: 49ers Strike First (49ers 7, Eagles 6)

The 49ers launched their offensive efforts with remarkable speed. Quarterback Brock Purdy orchestrated an early drive that culminated in a brief touchdown pass to Deebo Robinson. Following a successful extra point, San Francisco seized a 7–0 advantage.

In response, the Eagles embarked on a lengthy and physically demanding drive, fueled by Saquon Barkley. Tight end Dallas Goedert delivered a surprise to the 49ers by scoring a rushing touchdown from just one yard away, although the subsequent extra point attempt struck the upright and was unsuccessful. At the conclusion of the first quarter, the 49ers held a narrow lead of 7–6.

Second Quarter: Eagles Take the Lead, Kittle Goes Down (Eagles 13, 49ers 10)

The second quarter showcased Philadelphia’s determination as they continued to press forward. Another sustained drive concluded with a touchdown catch by Goedert, who successfully converted the extra point, granting the Eagles their first lead at 13–7.

Tragedy struck for San Francisco later in the quarter when George Kittle sustained an injury while attempting a catch near the sideline, necessitating his exit from the game. The injury was subsequently confirmed as a torn Achilles.

Despite this setback, the 49ers maintained their composure and responded with a 36-yard field goal from Eddy Pineiro. As the teams entered halftime, the Eagles held a slim lead at 13–10.

Third Quarter: Defense and Field Goals (Eagles 16, 49ers 10)

Following halftime, both defenses intensified their efforts. The Eagles increased their lead with a 41-yard field goal midway through the quarter, bringing the score to 16–10.

San Francisco managed to advance the ball but struggled to penetrate the end zone, and a crucial late interception hampered their momentum. As the fourth quarter approached, the defending champions still maintained their advantage.

Fourth Quarter: 49ers Take Over and Finish the Upset (49ers 23, Eagles 19)

The fourth quarter was dominated by San Francisco. On the very first play, wide receiver Jauan Jennings executed an unexpected touchdown pass to Christian McCaffrey. The extra point was successful, propelling the 49ers ahead at 17–16.

The Eagles responded with a field goal to reclaim the lead at 19–17, but the 49ers were far from finished. Purdy expertly directed a lengthy and methodical drive that culminated in another touchdown catch by McCaffrey. Although the extra point attempt was unsuccessful, San Francisco still led 23–19.

Philadelphia had one final opportunity to alter the outcome, but the 49ers’ defense held steadfast. Purdy skillfully managed the clock, kneeling down to secure one of the most significant playoff upsets of the year.

A Big Win with a Heavy Price

The 49ers reveled in their surprising playoff victory over the reigning champions, demonstrating resilience, ingenuity, and determination. However, the injury to George Kittle cast a shadow over their celebration as the team exited the field. San Francisco advances in the playoffs, but they will have to face the challenges ahead without one of their premier players.