Jeremy T. Ringfield's Blog, page 22

49ers satisfy their offseason competition itch on the golf course

Sundays are for football. But for more and more 49ers, the offseason is for taking hacks at a tiny, dimpled white ball.

Of the Niners’ 90-man offseason roster, more than 40 were trying to keep their front-nine scores under 40, so to speak.

And that doesn’t count golf hound Robert Saleh, who is back as the 49ers’ defensive coordinator after four years away from the Bay Area tee boxes as the New York Jets’ head coach.

Entering the golf chat this offseason was Nick Bosa, the 49ers’ premier defensive end. Not surprisingly, the 27-year-old five-time Pro Bowler has been a quick study.

“Bosa’s great. He already broke 90. He is very controlled,” fullback Kyle Juszczyk said. “He did it right, where he got lessons first. Whereas everyone else, like, you play for a number of years, and then it’s like, ‘Maybe I should get lessons,’ but then you already have all these bad habits. He’s very technical.

“He just started in January. It’s insane.”

Bosa is just the latest 49ers player to get serious about golf.

When the 49ers hosted their annual Golden Gateway fundraiser near Carmel in May, their players turned out in droves, and dozens took part in the golf tournament. The group included wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, who was still recovering from last season’s right-knee reconstruction. Aiyuk wore a compression sleeve on his right leg, a backward white cap on his head and had a cigar in his mouth, all while playing alongside quarterback Brock Purdy and tight end George Kittle.

Later in the summer, Kittle was an instant fan favorite when he debuted in the American Century Championship celebrity golf tournament at Edgewood Tahoe.

“I’m not a professional golfer, and some of the places people line up here when I’m on the tee box is just crazy to me,” said Kittle, who finished 81st in the 90-player field.

Juszczyk tied for 59th – with New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel and former NBA star Vince Carter – in his second straight Tahoe appearance.

Kittle had rebuffed previous invitations to play in the tournament until he got more serious about golf. Helping turn that tide was a 2023 Christmas gift he and some other teammates received from Christian McCaffrey. After one practice around the holidays that season, each of the 49ers’ offensive players found a personalized golf bag and a voucher for a complimentary fitting for clubs waiting at their locker, courtesy of the star running back.

Kyle Juszczyk talks to fans after completing the 14th hole prior to the American Century Championship at Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course on July 10, 2025 in Stateline, Nevada. (Photo by Eakin Howard/Getty Images)

“I had some other clubs, but I used to just play in Cabo (San Lucas, Mexico) after the season,” Kittle said. “Now I’m playing two times a week, which is a blast.”

Left tackle Trent Williams snatched up multiple sets of clubs once he got hooked on golf two years ago.

“We went to Cabo in the offseason with Kyle (Shanahan) and Mike (Shanahan) and Juice (Kyle Juszczyk), and everybody was down there. Everybody knew how to golf but me and Deebo (Samuel),” Williams said. “They put a club in my hand. That challenge just sparked a fire in me.

“Dealing with sports things, I hadn’t really met a bunch of stuff I couldn’t do. Golf was one of them. I couldn’t sleep with that. I had to figure out a way to get better.”

But it’s not all just fun and games. Golf is a method the 49ers use to study NFL Draft candidates.

In recent years, when prospects visit before the draft, the 49ers pit them against each other at the nearby TopGolf facility to spy their competitive instincts and team-bonding ability.

Golf is not new to the 49ers franchise, of course.

After quarterback John Brodie’s distinguished tenure with the team from 1957-73, he joined the Senior PGA Tour. Brodie posted one win (the 1991 Security Pacific Classic in Los Angeles) and had a dozen top-10 finishes.

Hall of Famer Jerry Rice also made a run at a second career as a pro golfer, and he’s been a regular in Tahoe, finishing as high as 10th in 2009 at the American Century Championship. Rice has played there since 1996, the only exception coming during his 2001 transition from the 49ers to the Raiders.

Dozens of former 49ers showed up in June at Pleasanton’s Ruby Hill Golf & Country Club as Keena Turner hosted his 30th tournament to benefit Tracy’s Boys & Girls Clubs.

Who are the 49ers’ top current golfers?

Kittle praised Juszczyk, McCaffrey, even Bosa, of whom he said: “Everything about him looks lackadaisical, and so that’s his golf swing. It’s always so smooth and easy.”

Of the newbies to the game, Kittle might be the most smitten.

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The six-time Pro Bowl tight end became so enchanted with golf that he hopped on a mower and converted part of his 75-acre Nashville property into a six-hole loop.

Kittle arrived in Tahoe this summer with one of the most unconventional putting stances in golf, with him hunched over and his back almost parallel to the green.

“I think he watched ‘Happy Gilmore,’” Juszczyk quipped, referencing comedian Adam Sandler’s classic golf movie. “No, he’s a great putter. He can smash the ball off the tee. George is good for one 40- to 50-foot putt per round. He’s the best scramble putter in the world because he’s got those wow! shots.”

Backup quarterback Tanner Mordecai, who spent 2024 on the practice squad as an undrafted rookie, might be the 49ers’ best under-the-radar golfer.

“Mordecai is disgusting. It’s not even fair,” Kittle said. “I give him jabs, like: ‘Maybe you should focus more on quarterback, and you’d be better at that than golf.’ That’s terrible. No, you can quote me on that.”

Such is a golfer’s banter. Until the next round.

Jerry Rice plays his shot out of a bunker on the 15th hole prior to the American Century Championship at Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course on July 10, 2025 in Stateline, Nevada. (Photo by Eakin Howard/Getty Images)

49ers report card: Defense ensures Niners pass their first test amid sloppy play elsewhere

SEATTLE – Here is how the 49ers graded in Sunday’s 17-13 season-opening win over the host Seattle Seahawks:

PASS OFFENSE: B

Brock Purdy threw touchdown passes on both their first and last possessions. Do those cancel out his two second-half interceptions? No, but he’s paid ($53 million per year) to deliver wins, and he came through in the clutch, completing all six of his passes for 67 yards on the game-winning drive that culminated in a 4-yard prayer to Jake Tonges.

Purdy’s protection wasn’t great, but he got sacked just once, when a blitzing safety slipped past Christian McCaffrey. It was no surprise Purdy capped a 14-play, 95-yard opening drive with a 5-yard scoring strike to Kittle. But once Kittle left with a hamstring, the 49ers needed others to step up, and seven others indeed made catches, each seemingly vital in this comeback but in particular McCaffrey (nine catches, 73 yards) and Ricky Pearsall, who had a 45-yard gem on the winning drive to highlight his four-catch, 108-yard day. Kudos also to Tonges, Kyle Juszczyk, Luke Farrell, Brian Robinson and Jauan Jennings, who had a signature third-and-Jauan conversion but also now has a shoulder injury.

RUN OFFENSE: B

Any 36-carry, 119-yard compilation deserves praise. This one came after days of concern over McCaffrey’s calf. The longest runs by McCaffrey (13 yards) and new backup Brian Robinson Jr. (9 yards) came on the 49ers’ game-tying drive to open the fourth quarter. McCaffrey’s predictably heavy workload included 22 carries (69 yards) while Robinson spelled him for nine carries (33 yards). McCaffrey converted on their first four short-yardage plays, but he got stuffed on his final three, and Robinson lost a yard on his second-and-1 try. Purdy’s mobility resulted in five carries (17 yards). Trent Williams and Dominick Puni played through injuries.

PASS DEFENSE: A-

Renardo Green may have allowed a 40-yard, last-minute catch that put the 49ers’ win in jeopardy, but Nick Bosa bailed him and the entire defense out with a strip-sack fumble recovery with 36 seconds remaining. If this wasn’t the best play of Bosa’s accomplished career, it was the most timely, as he powered right tackle Abraham Lucas into Darnold, forcing the fumble that Bosa recovered. It was the 49ers’ lone sack on Darnold (16-of-23, 150 yards). Another takeaway came when Sam Okuayinonu forced Jaxon Smith-Njigba to fumble in 49ers territory, with Marques Sigle recovering to open the fourth quarter and spark a rally. Not so great: penalties, on Deommodore Lenoir (unnecessary roughness, unsportsmanlike conduct), Upton Stout (pass interference in the end zone, setting up the Seahawks’ only touchdown) and Green (holding on third down).

RUN DEFENSE: A

The Seahawks may be trying to mirror a run-oriented, Shanahan-esque scheme, but they didn’t get positive results against a 49ers team that had major problems stopping the run last season. Seattle averaged just 3.2 yards per carry. Zach Charbonnet (12 carries, 47 yards, 1-yard touchdown) and Kenneth Walker III (10 carries, 20 yards) were ineffective, although Charbonnet’s incidental kick into Fred Warner’s face literally sparked a bloody fury (team-high eight tackles). The 49ers totaled seven tackles for loss – three from Bosa, two from Dee Winters and one each by Warner and Kalia Davis.

SPECIAL TEAMS: D-

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Jake Moody and the field-goal unit flunked their first-half performance, with Moody shanking a 27-yard try off the left upright before a protection gaffe got his next attempt blocked from 32 yards. Ah, but Moody made a game-tying, 32-yard field goal in the fourth quarter. Skyy Moore muffed one punt, but he returned the Seahawks’ final kickoff 24 yards so the 49ers’ winning drive could start at the 32. Isaac Guerendo, in his only touch of the day, muffed the second-half kickoff and returned it only to the 20-yard line.

COACHING: B

Wins won’t be easy this season, and this Week 1 escape exemplified that. Shanahan drew praise from Purdy and Pearsall for dialing up the 45-yard connection that sparked the winning drive. Robert Saleh started his second act as defensive coordinator with widespread praise, too.

Horoscopes Sept. 8, 2025: Pink, explore the possibilities

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Pink, 46; David Arquette, 54; Brooke Burke, 54; Neko Case, 55.

Happy Birthday: Explore the possibilities. Gather information, enforce financial planning and dedicate more time and effort to lucrative pastimes. Rely on intelligent sources, and build a sustainable future. Networking and actively participating in community functions will connect you with the best organizations. Take a wait-and-see approach to personal relationships and savor every moment, gathering memories as you go. A transformation in your relationships, friendships and commitments can lead to a more positive lifestyle. Your numbers are 3, 11, 19, 24, 32, 35, 46.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Invest more time in discovering what’s available and possible that can help propel you forward financially, creatively and emotionally. Striving to lead the way will be met with challenges from those eager to compete with you. A unique approach will make it difficult for competitors to oust you from your position. Protect your assets. 3 stars

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Think before you act. It’s essential not to take a chance or jeopardize your health by attending a crowded event that may pose a risk. Pay attention to detail, and it will help you avoid situations that lack rules or regulations. Take care of personal business, and keep up to date with what’s trending. 3 stars

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Participating in events or organizations that interest you will require restraint. It’s one thing to gather information and to sort through what might work for you; it’s another thing to buy into something without researching the pros and cons. Sticking close to home and tending to unfinished business will lead to the best outcome. 4 stars

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Leave nothing to chance when dealing with your position, reputation or finances. Taking on too much or overspending will lose its appeal when it’s time to pay or meet your deadline. Let your intuition take over, and you’ll avoid mistakes. Choose personal growth over costly physical changes that may soothe your ego but deplete your assets. 5 stars

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Refuse to let someone’s charm talk their way into home improvements you can’t afford or that aren’t necessary. The more you do for yourself, the better off you’ll be. Research, consult with experts and be assertive when conducting business. Ask for proof of qualifications, references and costs. Be sure to get everything in writing. 3 stars

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Do your part, volunteer, ask questions and make suggestions, and you can make a difference to the outcome. Participating and offering your services, skills and unique insights into every situation you encounter will help you gain respect among your peers. A positive change in where or how you work is apparent. Send out your resume and attend networking events. 3 stars

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): A change to your environment will give you the boost you need to follow your heart. Traveling, reconnecting with people from your past and reorganizing your time to allow for self-enjoyment will change your mindset regarding what life is all about and how to make the most of what you have. Romance is favored. 3 stars

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Be careful how you use your energy. Refuse to let anyone redirect your purpose or talk you into putting their needs ahead of yours. Offer suggestions, but don’t waste time elsewhere when achieving your goals is your focus. Review your relationships, set clear boundaries and strive for balance and equality. 5 stars

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Know your limitations, and focus on personal gains, fitness and connecting with people who can help you reach your objectives. Be wary of hype and those trying to manipulate situations to fit their needs. Now is not the time to be reckless; question everything, and don’t be afraid to do your own thing. 2 stars

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): An aggressive offer will require due diligence to avoid taking over someone else’s problem. Set a budget and be willing to walk away from a bidding war or a manipulative pitch. Take the time to address health issues and establish a routine that allows you to build physical strength. Proper diet and exercise will pay off. 2 stars

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Address domestic issues, shared expenses and innovative possibilities that make your life easier. Lowering your overhead or eliminating unnecessary costs, such as subscriptions and items you no longer use, can provide the relief you need to destress and declutter your life. Home improvements that reflect your needs will improve your mindset. 4 stars

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): A change of scenery will offer insight into new possibilities. Network, be open to suggestions and prepare to find the most cost-effective and efficient way to accomplish tasks. Joint ventures or shared expenses will require attention. You are best to cut ties with anyone who relies on you too heavily for assistance. 3 stars

Birthday Baby: You are intelligent, precise and opportunistic. You are kind and helpful.

1 star: Avoid conflicts; work behind the scenes.
2 stars: You can accomplish, but don’t rely on others.
3 stars: Focus and you’ll reach your goals.
4 stars: Aim high; start new projects.
5 stars: Nothing can stop you; go for gold.

Visit Eugenialast.com, or join Eugenia on Twitter/Facebook/LinkedIn.

Want a link to your daily horoscope delivered directly to your inbox each weekday morning? Sign up for our free Coffee Break newsletter at mercurynews.com/newsletters or eastbaytimes.com/newsletters.

49ers third-stringer, Los Gatos native an unlikely hero in win over Seahawks: ‘A dream come true’

San Francisco 49ers third-string tight end Jake Tonges didn’t have a catch and was targeted only once through the first 20 games – and three years — of his NFL career.

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Nevertheless, when starter George Kittle went down with a hamstring injury in the first half of Sunday’s game against the Seattle Seahawks, Tonges was ready.

Tonges, who grew up a short drive from Levi’s Stadium as a Los Gatos native, caught three passes, including one for a touchdown with 1:34 remaining in the fourth quarter, to help the 49ers rally for a 17-13 season-opening win over the Seahawks at Lumen Field.

“I’m pretty excited,” Tonges told the 49ers Radio Network after the game. “Really a dream come true right there.”

With the 49ers facing a third-and-3 from the Seattle 4-yard line, quarterback Brock Purdy dropped back to pass and had enough time to look to his left — twice — before scrambling to his right.

Purdy then slung the ball toward the corner of the end zone, where the 6-foot-4 Tonges reached over Seahawks cornerback Riq Woolen, who got a hand on the ball, and caught it for the first touchdown of his NFL career.

What was nearly Purdy’s third interception of the day turned into an unforgettable moment for the former two-sport star at Los Gatos High.

“I had a corner curl and slipped coming out of my break, and then the scramble drill was on,” Tonges said. “We just always try and stay in bounds and stay alive, and Brock gave me a chance there, and I did the best I could with it.”

Looking on from the sideline in a red 49ers hoodie, Kittle flashed a massive smile as thousands of the team’s fans inside the often-deafening stadium began to celebrate.

San Francisco 49ers tight end Jake Tonges (88) celebrates with tight end Luke Farrell, center, after a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)San Francisco 49ers tight end Jake Tonges (88) reacts after a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)Jake Tonges #88 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates a touchdown with Ben Bartch #78 during the fourth quarter against the Seattle Seahawks during the game at Lumen Field on Sept. 07, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Amanda Loman/Getty Images)Jake Tonges #88 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates a touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Seattle Seahawks during the game at Lumen Field on Sept. 07, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Amanda Loman/Getty Images)Show Caption1 of 4San Francisco 49ers tight end Jake Tonges (88) celebrates with tight end Luke Farrell, center, after a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)Expand

Tonges told reporters later that he asked Purdy, “if he was throwing it out of bounds and he said, ‘No, I was just trying to give you a chance.’ We didn’t want to kick a field goal. Didn’t want to go to overtime. We wanted to score and win it right there.”

Kittle caught a five-yard touchdown pass from Purdy midway through the first quarter to give the 49ers a 7-0 lead, and had four catches for 25 yards before leaving the field with his injury. Niners coach Kyle Shanahan didn’t have an update on Kittle’s health after the game.

As a career backup, Tonges knows he has to stay ready for such moments, and he finished the game with three catches for 15 yards.

“I was thinking just about how many games I prepped for, and didn’t really get the opportunity,” Tonges said. “I kind of know this is my role if George goes down. So, I’m always paying extra attention to third-down stuff, to a lot of the pass stuff. Just staying locked in and being consistent, because you really never know when your opportunity might come.”

Tonges, 26, graduated from Los Gatos High School in 2017 and caught four touchdowns in four years at Cal from 2018 to 2021. He went undrafted but played four games with the Chicago Bears in 2022, playing 34 snaps on offense while not being targeted with a pass.

San Francisco 49ers tight end Jake Tonges speaks during a press conference after an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/John Froschauer)

Tonges was waived by the Bears in Aug. 2023 but was signed by the 49ers to their practice squad a few weeks later. Last season, Tonges played in all 16 games for the 49ers but was primarily used on special teams.

The 49ers re-signed him in April — and are glad they did.

“It just comes down to opportunities, and in games, do you get the right look to get the ball and everything,” Purdy said. “So he’s been a consistent guy all throughout last year and camp. George goes down today, and then, boom, (Tonges is) ready for his opportunity. We all love Jake. He’s a smart kid, and we all love him, and he’s a brother to us.”

“He’s a guy that’s made of the right stuff, too,” 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey said. “Practices really hard, attention to detail is great, willing to block, does all the little things right. Pumped for him.”

It’s a moment Tonges will remember forever. After all, he’s never experienced anything like it in the NFL.

“It’s pretty awesome,” Tonges said of the moment. “Growing up 20 minutes from Levi’s, it’s just your dream come true. Wouldn’t want to play for anyone else. I love these guys. I love this locker room, and just want to keep rolling.”

Kurtenbach: The 49ers’ season-opening win was all kinds of messy. Get used to it

Everything that could have gone wrong did go wrong for the 49ers in their season-opening game Sunday in Seattle.

You had a special teams unit that looked like the players had never met each other before and a kicker who missed another easy field goal.

You had star players going down faster than the stock market on a bad day — George Kittle, Trent Williams, Jauan Jennings, all picked up injuries, conjuring memories of last year’s debacle of a season.

You had Brock Purdy throwing two interceptions that left you screaming at your TV.

But amid all that, we’re talking about a first-place team following San Francisco’s 17-13 come-from-behind win over the Seahawks.

In a few weeks, we won’t remember how the 49ers won on Sunday; we’ll only remember that they did, and that win in the standings could loom exceptionally large come December.

Yes, in the NFL, the ends justify the means.

But the Niners have to hope Sunday’s victory over the division-rival Seahawks qualifies as a tone-setter for the remainder of the season.

And we’re talking about the good tones, here.

Like the one that says, “We’re not perfect, but we’re going to fight until the final whistle, no matter how ugly it gets.”

To be fair, no one expected the 49ers’ first game this season to look crisp, detailed or organized. This team is relying on a slew of rookies and unproven players on both sides of the ball. They’ve spent the last few weeks scrambling to build a roster and practicing with limited personnel.

The Niners entered the season with far more questions than answers. That doesn’t change after Sunday.

In fact, they might have added a few more questions to the pile with their performance.

But one of the questions coming into Sunday’s game was whether Purdy could rise to the occasion in the biggest moments. If he could be clutch.

Does a final drive where he goes 6-for-6 for 67 yards and a touchdown answer that question?

Purdy’s game-winning drive was the kind of performance you expect from a quarterback making more than a quarter of a billion dollars — franchise money. He purged the bad play that preceded it and made big-time plays when big-time plays were needed.

And this season, it looks like they are going to be needed quite often.

The Niners are not the juggernaut they once were. Far from it.

San Francisco 49ers tight end Jake Tonges (88) celebrates with tight end Luke Farrell, center, after a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)San Francisco 49ers safety Marques Sigle (36) triest to get the ball after a fumble during the second half of an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)San Francisco 49ers defensive end Nick Bosa (97) runs down the field with the ball during the second half of an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – SEPTEMBER 07: Brock Purdy #13 of the San Francisco 49ers is sacked by Julian Love #20 of the Seattle Seahawks during the second quarter during the game at Lumen Field on September 07, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)San Francisco 49ers tight end Jake Tonges (88) reacts after a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)San Francisco 49ers tight end Jake Tonges (88) makes a touchdown catch during the second half of an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – SEPTEMBER 07: George Kittle #85 of the San Francisco 49ers catches a pass against Coby Bryant #8 of the Seattle Seahawks during the first quarter during the game at Lumen Field on September 07, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)George Kittle #85 of the San Francisco 49ers scores a touchdown against Ty Okada #39 of the Seattle Seahawks during the first quarter during the game at Lumen Field on Sept. 07, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)Defensive coordinator Robert Saleh of the San Francisco 49ers looks on during the second quarter against the Seattle Seahawks during the game at Lumen Field on Sept. 07, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)San Francisco 49ers defensive end Nick Bosa (97) runs down the field with the ball during the second half of an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – SEPTEMBER 07: Brock Purdy #13 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates after defeating the Seattle Seahawks during the game at Lumen Field on September 07, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)Show Caption1 of 11San Francisco 49ers tight end Jake Tonges (88) celebrates with tight end Luke Farrell, center, after a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)Expand

Perhaps at some point, down the line this season or beyond, their young talent can help them reach that level again. But in the meantime, they’re going to be playing down-to-the-wire, scrap-it-out games, week in and week out. This is how most teams in the NFL operate, and how players perform in those final minutes of games is how reputations are burnished.

Purdy performed with aplomb Sunday. Yes, his game-winning touchdown pass to Jake Tonges (no, that’s not a typo), might have been eminently interceptable, but it was also only made possible because of Purdy’s scrambling ability. He extended the play, kept his eyes downfield, and gave his guy — even if you didn’t know who the guy was — a chance.

You’re going to have to learn to be comfortable living on the edge if you’re going to watch this team this season.

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And it wasn’t just Purdy who came up clutch in Seattle.

Christian McCaffrey fought through a midweek calf injury to gut out 142 yards of offense, more than a third of the Niners’ overall output. Tonges came out of nowhere to make the first three catches of his NFL career on the game-winning drive. Amid a never-ending string of injuries at his position, sophomore receiver Ricky Pearsall lived up to his singular jersey number with a 108-yard performance. And defensive end Nick Bosa – quiet for the vast majority of the game — made back-to-back winning plays to cap the win, not only stuffing a run in the red zone, but then forcing a fumble from Seattle quarterback Sam Darnold on the next play and picking the ball up to seal the win.

When you have that kind of well-timed good play, you can live with the bad.

It’s on the Niners to set Sunday’s game as a baseline. If that’s as bad as it gets all season, they will win more than they lose.

If that’s a sign of things to come, it’s going to be a long year.

Defensive coordinator Robert Saleh put it best when he was asked about his young, inexperienced roster on Thursday: “Put your seatbelt on, enjoy the ride.”

He might as well have been talking about the whole team. What a bumpy, twisty start to the journey that was.

But the Niners look like they have the right guys at the wheel on this road-trip of a campaign — Purdy, McCaffrey, Bosa and Fred Warner. And that might just let them get where they want by the end.

But in the meantime, please pass the Dramamine.

What the 49ers are saying after winning season opener against Seahawks

The 49ers won their season opener 17-13 over the Seahawks in Seattle on Sunday, overcoming injuries and some ugly play for a divisional victory.

Brock Purdy’s deep ball to Ricky Pearsall Jr. and touchdown pass to Jake Tonges were the key plays on the Niners’ game-winning drive late in the fourth quarter. Purdy was 26-of-35 for 277 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions.

Nick Bosa’s strip-sack of Sam Darnold and fumble recovery on Seattle’s ensuing possession sealed the game after the Seahawks drove into the red zone with less than a minute left.

Christian McCaffrey had 69 yards rushing and 73 receiving while Pearsall led San Francisco with 108 receiving yards, including a 45-yard bomb down the left sideline to set up the winning score.

Here’s what coach Kyle Shanahan and the 49ers had to say after the win:

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – SEPTEMBER 07: Head coach Kyle Shanahan of the San Francisco 49ers reacts during the second quarter against the Seattle Seahawks during the game at Lumen Field on September 07, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)Kyle Shanahan

On the severity of George Kittle’s hamstring injury:

We gotta get the MRIs and everything tomorrow to find out.

On the deep ball to Pearsall:

It was a double move. We ran it earlier, I want to say the second third down of the game, and then we just came back with a double move on it. Ran a real good route and Brock threw a good ball, and must have had good protection on the play because it takes a while to do.

On Tonges’ TD:

That was just breaking out. I mean, I was looking to the left on the play that we were calling and they weren’t there. I take my eyes to the right and Brock’s breaking the pocket and when he threw that up, I couldn’t see it at all. I didn’t know if he was throwing it away, I didn’t know if it was a pick but our guys on the sideline started cheering.

On Tonges and Luke Farrell stepping into Kittle’s role:

It was huge. It wasn’t just that catch. Both of those tight ends — him and Luke — and Juice picking it up. Losing Kittle in that game was big for us. He was a huge part of the game plan, as you guys saw earlier. Had to mix some guys around and those guys stepped up big, man.

On the win:

I was just so happy with our team. I mean, there was a lot of adversity in that game that we had to overcome. Offense, defense, special teams, number of injuries, those two turnovers, being able to get to even it out and still find a way to win, I was real proud of our team.

On the missed kicks:

I was disappointed that we missed two field goals, missed one, which is a big miss, especially. We were inside the 10. The next one, Love made a hell of a move. I think it was Love splitting that D gap, looked like he jumped over the guys from what I saw on the scoreboard. But we got to clean up that protection. That’s everyone there, that one wasn’t Jake. That’s just the whole operation.

On his reaction to Bosa’s fumble recovery:

Took a breath. Was relieved, pumped up. Then I got to watch out for all the big guys to try to knock me out on the sideline to celebrate after it, who’s much more aggressive than me. But I was pumped. I mean, in those two-minute situations, you want to go tee off on the quarterback and from what I saw he did an awesome job not just running past him.

On whether Moody’s status is in peril:

No, no question.

On this game being one they may not have won last year:

I don’t think we’re tinking much about that right now. We’ve been working ot do that and I think a game like this makes it easier to do that too, because you’re right. That was one that could have gone either way, especially after the missed field goal, the block, the two turnovers and a few big injuries in that game. So for us to still find a way to close out that and win, real proud of this year’s team and hope we’ll be back at it next week.

San Francisco 49ers defensive end Nick Bosa (97) runs down the field with the ball during the second half of an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)Nick Bosa

On making the game-saving play:

It means a lot. It was a grind of a game, lots of ups and downs. It tested us in a lot of ways. It was really good, obviously. Ending with a win is what we’re always aiming for and the fact that I was able to help, it’s always great.

On stopping the run and playing Seattle:

That’s what we always emphasize. It was a scheme we were familiar with (because of) the Kyle Shanahan tree. For the young guys, it was good because they’ve seen it in camp. Saleh’s the man. He calls it great. I need to watch it and don’t know what’s going on half the time in a game. But No. 1 is to stop the run.

On the final play:

That was just a rush. It was a grind all game. They were making it tough. And thankfully, I made a play at the end.

On emotions throughout the game:

It was a roller coaster. In the NFL, you have to stay even-keel no matter what happens because if I’m not locked in on that last play, maybe we lose. So you never know when your opportunity is going to come.

On defensive coordinator Robert Saleh:

He’s as good as any defensive coach in the league. You could just feel leading up to the game how important this is to him. He was trying to get everything perfect before we step on the field, even with a lot of young guys. He was a little nervous coming in. We all were.

Everybody is nervous in the NFL. First game. It’s a high-pressure business and you have to go out and perform. People forget quick, so you have to go do your thing every day.

On Fred Warner’s toughness:

He had something shoved up his nose. I was just like, “Fred, you all right?” Because he got hit in the stomach and was gasping for air and his nose was just leaking blood. I’m like “Are you OK? You don’t look OK.” But whenever Fred goes down, I’m just waiting for him to combe back because he’s a great player and had a great game. His leadership is right up there with Saleh’s. He’s a coach and the best linebacker in the league.

On Jake Moody:

I’m always supportive of a guy struggling. Obviously that position is cut and dry whether you’re getting it done or not. I’ll never turn on my teammate

San Francisco 49ers tight end Jake Tonges (88) reacts after a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)Jake Tonges

On the touchdown play:

I had a corner curl route and I kind of slipped a little bit coming out of it but I looked back at. Brock and he started scrambling around. So immediate scramble drill, you know, try to stay inbounds, try to beat your guy. I saw him throw it up. I wasn’t sure if he was throwing it away or whatever but I just tried to cut underneath the corner right there and high-point it and come down inbounds.

On stepping in for Kittle:

It’s really just figuring out in our different personnels, who’s going to play which position and how we’re going to ssplit up the 11-personnel stuff. So that stuff was all talked about at halftime, throughout the third and fourth quarter. But we just try and be as prepared as you can and slide right in there and try to have the lvel of play be as close as it can possibly be.

On his three catches on the final drive:

The first one was a screen. Honestly, I could have done a better job on that one and kind of got caught up. My feet got caught up with one of the offensive linemen, so I was disappointed about that one because they’re calling my number a little bit. So that one could have gone better. and then the other one, I know I could have gotten the ball kind of later in the progression, so I was just trying to stay alive and convert that into a first down. And obviously the last one I wasn’t expecting in that fashion.

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – SEPTEMBER 07: Brock Purdy #13 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates after defeating the Seattle Seahawks during the game at Lumen Field on September 07, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)Brock Purdy

On the winning touchdown pass:

It was a fast break, so you walk up and snap the ball quick and just a straight across-the-board read. Just felt like coverage was tight and at that point I felt like I needed to leave the pocket, trying to find a guy in the end zone. And then as I’m going away, (the goal was to) put it hopefully where nobody can get it. I know it was a close call but he used his length, came down with it.

On Tonges:

It just comes down to opportunities and in games, do you get the right look to get the ball and everything. So he’s been a consistent guy all throughout last year and camp. George goes down today and then, boom, he’s ready for his opportunity. We all love Jake. He’s a smart kid and we all love him.

San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey (23) warms up before an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/John Froschauer)Christian McCaffrey

On the win:

We have a really new team. There’s so much talk about our past teams and we try to wipe away all the past noise away and focus on this team. To have a bunch of new guys come out fir the first time together and play with each other and get out a gritty win against a good team in a touch environment, that’s a big deal.

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – SEPTEMBER 07: Fred Warner #54 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates after defeating the Seattle Seahawks during the game at Lumen Field on September 07, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)Fred WarnerRelated Articles 49ers report card: Defense ensures Niners pass their first test amid sloppy play elsewhere 49ers satisfy their offseason competition itch on the golf course 49ers third-stringer, Los Gatos native an unlikely hero in win over Seahawks: ‘A dream come true’ Kurtenbach: The 49ers’ season-opening win was all kinds of messy. Get used to it Studs and Duds: 49ers’ stars come up clutch in come-from-behind win over rival Seahawks

On the bloody nose:

I laid out for the tackle and I guess my helmet wasn’t on tight enough, so that chin strap kind of came up and got the nose. It was more so falling on his cleat that got me (in the stomach).

On Saleh:

It’s huge. I’ve talked about it all offseason, just the confidence that you have as a player with such a dialed-in coach like that. Having him back on the sideline making adjustments, I kind of had a feel for how he was going to call the game.

On the young defenders’ debut:

When you have young players, you hope that they play assignment-sound. But the thing that you can’t show is that tenacity, that relentlessness to the football. That’s their advantage, if you’re able to just play with your hair on fire. And we needed that in a big way.

On Bosa’s sealing play:

It wasn’t the best coverage by our group, but thank god for Bosa in that situation. I saw the ball come out. I didn’t know who forced it. I saw him get on it, so the fact that he made that big a play was major. It wasn’t clean at all, like I said, all game long, but finding a way to win in the division Week 1 is major.

Studs and Duds: 49ers’ stars come up clutch in come-from-behind win over rival Seahawks

How’s that for a season opener?

The 49ers and Seahawks played a down-to-the-wire game that was anything but a classic.

But it’s not a game that will be forgotten anytime soon.

The 49ers beat the Seahawks 17-13 in their season debuts, with the team’s biggest players coming up in a huge way in the most critical moments.

Here are the studs and duds from the game.

STUDSSan Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey (23) warms up before an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/John Froschauer)Christian McCaffrey – RB

» Was he 100 percent healthy? He’ll say so. But whatever percentage he was, the 49ers needed all of it on Sunday, particularly after George Kittle’s injury.

McCaffrey had a handful of nice runs — and more than a few where he turned losses into small gains against an aggressive Seattle defense. But his success really came in the pass game.

Seattle’s defensive goal was to crowd the line of scrimmage, taking away the outside zone run. The antidote to that is swing passes and Texas routes to McCaffrey out of the backfield, and Brock Purdy took that option again and again and again Sunday.

Without McCaffrey, the 49ers wouldn’t have had much of an offense. With him, they had a winning performance.

San Francisco 49ers tight end Jake Tonges (88) makes a touchdown catch during the second half of an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)Jake Tonges – TE

» The former Cal Golden Bear might have been the last guy to make the 49ers’ roster in August.

Aren’t the Niners glad they kept him?

His touchdown catch, where he took the ball from Riq Woolen in the end zone, was the difference in the game for the 49ers.

It was his third-ever NFL catch. His prior two came earlier in the drive.

Tonges will never be a George Kittle replacement, but he made the most of an unexpected opportunity and won a game we’ll forever know as the Jake Tonges Game.

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – SEPTEMBER 07: George Kittle #85 of the San Francisco 49ers catches a pass against Coby Bryant #8 of the Seattle Seahawks during the first quarter during the game at Lumen Field on September 07, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)George Kittle – TE

» When he played he was awesome. Against gap-filling linebackers, Kittle had a field day in the flat, catching four passes for 25 yards and a touchdown.

But a hamstring injury — which showed up on a downfield block in the second quarter — took him out of the game and led the Niners to force-feed McCaffrey for the remainder of the game.

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Ricky Pearsall (1) makes a catch during the second half of an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)Ricky Pearsall – WR

» A great first drive, with two big gains on crossing routes, followed by an excellent block to free Purdy on a screen that set up the Niners’ first touchdown of the game the next play. The Niners waited two quarters to go back to him, and he, of course, responded with defense-busting plays, including a beautiful 45-yard pickup just before the two-minute warning.

Pearsall is the 49ers’ unquestioned wide receiver No. 1, and that’s a good thing for this season.

San Francisco 49ers safety Marques Sigle (36) triest to get the ball after a fumble during the second half of an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)Marques Sigle – S

» The rookie safety picked up a forced fumble, but it was his ability to snuff out passes from the backfield that seriously limited Seattle’s offense. It’s not as if the Seahawks didn’t try him, either.

For a rookie to be that impressive at a position where nothing is straightforward or simple is next-level.

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – SEPTEMBER 07: Fred Warner #54 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates after defeating the Seattle Seahawks during the game at Lumen Field on September 07, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)Fred Warner and Dee Winters – LB

» The 49ers’ two base linebackers were incredible going sideline to sideline. Winters, in particular, showed top-end run and pass defense skills — it’s as if the Niners didn’t lose Dre Greenlaw in free agency this past offseason.

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy (13) tries to get past Seattle Seahawks linebacker Boye Mafe (53) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)Brock Purdy – QB

» There’s no reason to pretend as if Purdy’s two interceptions weren’t egregious. They were.

But down three and with the ball, Purdy went 6-for-6 for 67 yards and the game-winning touchdown.

That’s what really matters, folks.

Purdy has to be better, but when the Niners needed him at his best, he delivered.

San Francisco 49ers defensive end Nick Bosa (97) runs down the field with the ball during the second half of an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)Nick Bosa – DE

» A quiet game for Bosa.

Until he needed to be loud.

A big run stop on a red-zone first down with less than a minute to play, followed by a forced and recovered fumble of Sam Darnold, ended the game for San Francisco.

Big-time players make big-time plays in the biggest moments. Bosa has never been accused of not being big-time.

DUDSRelated Articles 49ers report card: Defense ensures Niners pass their first test amid sloppy play elsewhere 49ers satisfy their offseason competition itch on the golf course 49ers third-stringer, Los Gatos native an unlikely hero in win over Seahawks: ‘A dream come true’ Kurtenbach: The 49ers’ season-opening win was all kinds of messy. Get used to it What the 49ers are saying after winning season opener against Seahawks Jordan Elliott – DT

» Easy and free travel. Elliott went for a bus ride again and again and again on Sunday.

Upton Stout – NB

» The rookie had a strong start to training camp and it seems his success as a rookie in a challenging position (nickel back) was taken for granted.

But that NFL Premiere patch on his jersey — denoting that it was his first game as a pro — might as well have been a bullseye for the Seattle Seahawks.

Seattle tested Stout from the jump on Sunday, and while his play improved as the contest progressed — he had a nice deflection on the Seahawks’ final drive — but it was still a tough watch, overall.

Trent Williams – LT

» The future Hall of Famer looked slow. There’s no sugar-coating it.

It’s almost as if he hasn’t seriously played football in months.

But if Williams isn’t one of the greatest to ever play, the 49ers’ offensive line becomes extremely porous. It looked that way Sunday.

Jake Moody – K

» But really, this is an indictment of the 49ers’ front office. It’s an indictment of the entire special teams operation, which failed repeatedly Sunday.

But Moody’s 27-yard miss off the left upright loomed large in this game. It led the Niners to go for it on a fourth-and-2 on the Seattle 12-yard line in the fourth quarter instead of kicking a field goal down three points.

If you can’t trust your field goal kicker or blocking team in that situation, don’t you need changes on both fronts?

49ers 17, Seahawks 13: Late heroics produce chaotic season-opening win

SEATTLE – Brock Purdy bought time in the pocket, rolled right and threw up a Hail Mary-esque pass, even if it was only a 4-yard desperation lob.

Jake Tonges, subbing for the injured George Kittle, somehow used all 6-foot-4 of his frame to pull down his first-ever touchdown catch.

The 49ers had a four-point lead with 1 1/2 minutes remaining in their chaotic season opener. More chaos was coming. So was Nick Bosa.

San Francisco 49ers defensive end Nick Bosa (97) runs down the field with the ball during the second half of an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

Bosa recovered a Sam Darnold fumble with 36 seconds remaining inside the 49ers’ red zone to preserve a season-opening 17-13 win.

“It was a rollercoaster,” Bosa said, “and in the NFL you have to stay even keel, no matter what happens, because if I’m not locked in on that last play, maybe we lose.”

Bosa pushed Seahawks right tackle Abraham Lucas into Darnold in the pocket, the ball came loose, Bosa pounced on it, and a few minutes later, Purdy skipped off into the visitors’ tunnel with his first win as a $265 million quarterback.

Thus, the 49ers were not doomed by Jake Moody’s disastrous field-goal attempts, Purdy’s two interceptions after halftime, or injuries that took out Kittle (hamstring), wide receiver Jauan Jennings (shoulder) and, temporarily, left tackle Trent Williams (ankle).

GRAND FINALE, PART I

Tonges said his first career touchdown played out in slow motion as a 10-second moment he will remember forever.

“I went up, caught it, looked down at my feet to make sure I was inbound, looked around for flags, and it was silent because we’re on the road,” Tonges said. “Someone, I think Russell Gage, said: ‘You scored, you scored.’ Then I spiked the ball and celebrated with all my guys.”

Up until the winning drive, Tonges had no career receptions — to the surprise of Purdy and most teammates afterward. Tonges produced catches for 2 and 9 yards only a few snaps before Purdy sought him out for the finale.

“The coverage was tight and I felt I needed to leave the pocket and find a guy in the end zone,” Purdy said. “I wanted to put it hopefully where Tonges could get it or no one could get it. It was a close call.”

Purdy sparked that drive with a 45-yard completion to Ricky Pearsall, thrusting the 49ers to the Seahawks’ 22-yard line. After Tonges’ initial catches, McCaffrey had a 1-yard run and a 6-yard catch, setting up a third-and-3 from the 4-yard line, which Purdy and Tonges turned into magic.

Seattle coach Mike Maconald said: “We played the first 9.9 of that 10-second play at the end phenomenally. The guy made a great play.”

GRAND FINALE, DEFENSIVELY

The Seahawks threatened to nullify Tonges’ score with their own touchdown, and a 40-yard pass from Darnold to Jaxon Smith-Njigba got them in the red zone. After pass rusher Bryce Huff jumped offside, Bosa stopped Kenneth Walker III for no gain and followed his a strip-sack fumble recovery.

“In those two-minute situations, you want to go tee off on the quarterback,” Shanahan said. “And from what I saw, it was an awesome job not just running past him and allowing him to step up. He got to the top, came back underneath. … To finish it right there, we don’t have to worry about what else would have happened.”

Bosa said of the winning finish: “It tested us in a lot of ways, so it was really good. Obviously ending with a win is what we’re always aiming for, and the fact I was able to help is always great.”

Darnold, the 49ers’ 2023 backup, was 16-of-23 for 150 yards and one sack.

‘NO QUESTION’ MOODY STAYS?

The third time was Moody’s charm, as he tied the score at 10 by converting a 32-yard attempt with 9:42 remaining. Shanahan said there is “no question” Moody will remain the 49ers’ kicker, but he did note he didn’t want to make any heat-of-the-moment proclamation and would review everything about this game.

Earlier, Moody added to his struggles from last season and the preseason. A 27-yard attempt from the left hashmark careened into the left upright. In turn, it was the Seahawks who got a go-ahead field goal just before halftime, with Jason Myers converting from 48 yards for a 10-7 lead.

Moody’s second field goal attempt, from 36 yards, got blocked when Julian Love quickly jumped past Matt Hennessy and smothered Moody’s attempt on its ascent. Shanahan, irate at the time, blamed that block on the “operation” of the blockers.

Christian McCaffrey #23 of the San Francisco 49ers runs the ball during the second quarter against the Seattle Seahawks during the game at Lumen Field on Sept. 07, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Amanda Loman/Getty Images)

McCAFFREY VERY ACTIVE

Questionable with a calf issue, McCaffrey was not eased into duty. He produced 142 yards from scrimmage as the 49ers’ greatest offensive weapon, though he was relieved on occasion by Brian Robinson Jr. (nine carries, 33 yards).

Asked how his body will respond, McCaffrey quipped: “Amazing.” He had 22 carries for 69 yards and nine receptions for 73 yards.

GRAND OPENING

Purdy engineered a 95-yard, 14-play touchdown drive on the 49ers’ first possession, capped off by a 5-yard touchdown pass to Kittle near the front right pylon. Keeping that series afloat were three third-down conversions: receptions by Kittle (eight yards) and Pearsall (26 yards), but also a roughing-the-passer penalty on Leonard Williams on a Purdy incompletion.

The Seahawks answered the 49ers’ first touchdown drive, also capitalizing on a defensive penalty. After Upton Stout drew a pass-interference penalty on an apparent fourth-and-3 overthrow toward Cooper Kupp in the end zone, Zach Charbonnet scored on a 1-yard run for a 7-7 tie early in the second quarter.

HEALTH WATCH

— Kittle initially drew inspection from the 49ers’ medical staff on the bench following his touchdown catch. Five offensive snaps later, Kittle slowly walked to the sideline downfield after Purdy got sacked (when McCaffrey failed to block a blitzing safety).

— Jauan Jennings jogged off with a left shoulder injury early in the fourth quarter. He caught 2-of-5 targets for 16 yards, including an 11-yard gain on third down. Already without Brandon Aiyuk (knee), Demarcus Robinson (suspended) and Jordan Watkins (ankle), Shanahan acknowledged the 49ers might sign Kendrick Bourne, who worked out for them Monday.

Related Articles 49ers report card: Defense ensures Niners pass their first test amid sloppy play elsewhere 49ers satisfy their offseason competition itch on the golf course 49ers third-stringer, Los Gatos native an unlikely hero in win over Seahawks: ‘A dream come true’ Kurtenbach: The 49ers’ season-opening win was all kinds of messy. Get used to it What the 49ers are saying after winning season opener against Seahawks

— All-Pro linebacker Fred Warner got kicked in the face on the Seahawks’ first scoring drive, his helmet popping loose and his nose bludgeoned by Charbonnet’s foot on an outside run. Warner returned that series with cotton stuffed up his left nostril, and he opened the next drive with a tackle for loss. Said Bosa: “His nose was just leaking blood. I was like, ‘You OK? You don’t look OK.’”

— Left tackle Trent Williams hurt his problematic right ankle on the same series (the 49ers’ third) in which Kittle left. Williams did not miss any snaps, however.

— Defensive end Sam Okuayinonu was evaluated and cleared of a potential concussion. He forced a fumble that was recovered by safety Marques Sigle, who started in his NFL debut.

“We have a really new team,” McCaffrey said. “There’s so much talk about our past teams and we try to wipe away all the past noise away and focus on this team. To have a bunch of new guys come out for the first time together and play with each other and get out a gritty win against a good team in a touch environment, that’s a big deal.”

San Francisco 49ers tight end Jake Tonges (88) reacts after a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – SEPTEMBER 07: George Kittle #85 of the San Francisco 49ers catches a pass against Coby Bryant #8 of the Seattle Seahawks during the first quarter during the game at Lumen Field on September 07, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)San Francisco 49ers tight end Jake Tonges (88) makes a touchdown catch during the second half of an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)George Kittle #85 of the San Francisco 49ers scores a touchdown against Ty Okada #39 of the Seattle Seahawks during the first quarter during the game at Lumen Field on Sept. 07, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)Brian Robinson Jr. #3 of the San Francisco 49ers catches the ball during the second quarter against the Seattle Seahawks during the game at Lumen Field on Sept. 07, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)Brock Purdy #13 of the San Francisco 49ers looks to pass the ball against the Seattle Seahawks during the game at Lumen Field on Sept. 07, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy (13) tries to get past Seattle Seahawks linebacker Boye Mafe (53) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)San Francisco 49ers cornerback Deommodore Lenoir (2) celebrates as the clock winds down during the second half of an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/John Froschauer)San Francisco 49ers defensive end Nick Bosa (97) runs down the field with the ball during the second half of an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)Jake Tonges #88 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrates a touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Seattle Seahawks during the game at Lumen Field on Sept. 07, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Amanda Loman/Getty Images)San Francisco 49ers tight end Luke Farrell (89) is tackled by Seattle Seahawks cornerback Devon Witherspoon (21) and linebacker Ernest Jones IV (13) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)San Francisco 49ers defensive end Nick Bosa (97) runs down the field with the ball during the second half of an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)Show Caption1 of 12San Francisco 49ers tight end Jake Tonges (88) reacts after a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)Expand

 

SF Giants drop two of three to Cardinals, prepare for crucial six-game homestand

ST. LOUIS — In a vacuum, the Giants had an acceptable road trip. They dropped the rubber match to the St. Louis Cardinals on Sunday at Busch Stadium, but with a sweep of the Colorado Rockies, they’ll fly home with four wins to two losses.

The Giants do not exist in a vacuum. With 19 games remaining and a record of 72-71, acceptable is not enough. They had an opportunity in St. Louis to inch closer to that final NL wild card spot, but Saturday’s walk-off loss combined with Sunday’s 4-3 loss leaves them four games behind the New York Mets.

“Normally, you think a 4-2 trip is not a bad trip, but in our position right now, we have to win more games than that,” said manager Bob Melvin. “After winning the first game, winning one of these next two was important. But, go home and play well again.”

Now, they enter their most important homestand of the season: Three games against the surging Arizona Diamondbacks, who are making their own late push for the final wild card spot, and three games against the Los Angeles Dodgers, who are clinging to the division lead.

San Francisco has revived its playoff hopes over the last two-and-a-half weeks, winning 11 of its last 15 games even after dropping two of three to the Cardinals. A good homestand will keep the Giants in the hunt, especially if the Mets continue to stumble. A bad homestand could see their playoff odds fall closer to zero.

“We battled our (butts) off yesterday and today and came up short, but we still got a chance,” said third baseman Matt Chapman, who went 1-for-3 with an RBI. “We didn’t think we’d be in this position probably two weeks ago, but here we are. We still have a really good opportunity in front of us. It stings. The last two days suck, but we’ll be ready tomorrow.

“We have a lot of big games coming up. A lot of good stuff can happen still. We saw how fast things can change in a couple weeks. So, that’s kind of the mindset. We still control our own destiny.”

To Chapman’s point, the Giants only control their destiny to a certain degree. They’ll need to stack wins, but they’ll also need the teams ahead of them in the standings to stack losses. The Mets have a tough stretch awaiting, slated to play four games on the road against the Phillies, then three games apiece at home against the Rangers and Padres.

When the Giants return home, there’s a possibility that they’ll be without Chapman for their series opener against the Dodgers.

Chapman has a virtual hearing with Major League Baseball on Thursday regarding his one-game suspension for his role in last Tuesday’s benches-clearing incident with the Colorado Rockies. If the suspension isn’t dropped, Chapman will sit out on Friday against Los Angeles.

Chapman believes he has a “good shot” at winning his appeal, pointing out that he already missed a full game on Tuesday since he was ejected before taking an at-bat or playing defense.

Losing Chapman for a game would be a brutal blow for a team that needs everything to go right. This season, the Giants are 60-49 in games where Chapman plays compared to 12-21 in games he sits.

“I’ve talked to the (MLB Players Association) and Buster (Posey), but nothing in great detail,” Chapman said. “I’m sure I’ll know more as it gets closer. I feel like we have a good shot. I already sat out a game. I wasn’t trying to instigate a fight; I was just trying to defend my teammates. Hopefully, they can see where I was coming from.”

Kai-Wei Teng and Sonny Gray traded zeros for the first four innings of Sunday’s contest, but St. Louis erupted for four runs in the fifth when Teng suddenly lost his command.

The right-hander began the inning by walking the Cardinals’ Nos. 7, 8 and 9 hitters, setting the table for the top of the order. Lars Nootbaar’s RBI single broke the scoreless tie, knocking Teng out of the game in the process. Right-handed reliever José Buttó then  allowed all three inherited runners to score, and St. Louis led 4-0.

Teng ended his afternoon having allowed four runs over four-plus innings with eight strikeouts and five walks, a sour end to a great beginning. The right-hander said he felt “a bit tired” in the fifth inning, a fatigue he attributes to starting the season as a reliever with Triple-A Sacramento.

“I was always training as a reliever, then I turned (back) into a starter in the middle of the season,” Teng said through team interpreter Andy Lin. “I have to try to gain my pitch count … and start doing a starter’s weight training.”

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The Giants had their response in the sixth. Gray began the inning by walking both Drew Gilbert and Knizner, gifting San Francisco a rally. After Gray struck out Heliot Ramos, Rafael Devers recorded the Giants’ first hit of the day with a single that drove in Gilbert to cut the deficit to 4-1.

Following Devers’ RBI single, Willy Adames drew a walk to load the bases, then Dominic Smith drove in another run with a single that ended Gray’s afternoon.

The Giants got within one run when Chapman knocked in Devers with a single against reliever Matt Svanson, but Svanson maintained the Cardinals’ lead by retiring Jung Hoo Lee and Casey Schmitt. That would be as close as San Francisco would get to tying the game.

How to defend a home from wildfire: UC Berkeley researchers’ lessons from infernos

Lessons learned from catastrophic and deadly wildfires that ravaged California in recent years could help residents and communities in and near forested areas limit damage from future fires, a first-of-its-kind study suggests.

And experts say the researchers’ conclusion that clearing flammable materials for 5 feet around houses — the area targeted as Zone 0 under a looming and controversial state-wide regulation — should also help residents in fire-risk zones understand the need for such measures.

UC Berkeley scientists studied five major wildfires the Wine Country’s 2017 Tubbs Fire, 2019 Kincade Fire and 2020 Glass Fire, plus the 2017 Thomas Fire in Southern California and the 2018 Camp Fire in Paradise that together burned some 27,000 structures and killed 109 people. Three key lessons for protecting homes from wildfire emerged, two of them applying to individual homeowners hardening houses against fire, and clearing nearby flammable materials like plants and fences and one requiring communitywide action.

“It isn’t just about you doing it,” said UC Berkeley fire scientist Michael Gollner, one of the study’s authors. “It’s really about a communitywide effort. You can do all the right things, and if your neighbors’ homes are not protected at all, that can create a really big risk.”

The researchers concluded that, especially in relatively dense neighborhoods, even if residents take diligent action in defense of their own houses, that may not matter much if their neighbors don’t.

In 2018 whole neighborhoods were destroyed by the Camp Fire near the Paradise Plaza off Clark Road in Paradise. (LiPo Ching/Bay Area News Group)

The closer together homes are, the more likely they are to transmit flames and embers to each other. In dense neighborhoods, clearing flammable materials from around a house and hardening it against fire typically “makes little difference on the survivability of a single home,” the study said.

However, the better individual homes are hardened with flame-resistant siding, roofs, windows and vents, and flammable surrounding items like vegetation, fences and sheds between houses are reduced, the less likely fire will spread from building to building, the study found.

“That’s where Zone 0 really becomes a critical component of this piece of the puzzle, not allowing the fire to travel too easily between homes,” said Steve Hawks, senior director for wildfire at the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety, a nonprofit funded by insurance companies.

Cutting that spread, Gollner said, helps avert what’s known as the “disaster sequence” when the number of houses on fire overwhelms firefighters.

“Every ember that doesn’t catch, every house that doesn’t burn, is a freed-up firefighter that can be putting out one that is,” Gollner said.

In 2019, fire and embers blow around a burnt utility truck during the Kincade fire in Healdsburg. Powerful winds were fanning wildfires in northern California in "potentially historic fire" conditions, authorities said. (Photo by JOSH EDELSON/AFP via Getty Images)

Gollner and his colleagues who also included researchers from other universities used computer models to reconstruct the five fires, and they dug deep into Cal Fire damage reports that included which structures burned, which survived, and in some cases, characteristics of buildings like siding type. Vegetation and structure mapping from aerial photos and satellite images were added to the mix.

When the researchers ran a scenario where all homes in a hypothetical wildfire had been hardened with nonflammable siding, fine mesh over vents, double-paned windows and fire-resistant roofing, a quarter of houses survived. When they added Zone 0 measures to all homes, the survival rate shot to 40%. Extending the clearing of flammables out to 30 feet boosted survival to 48%.

In the hills above Los Gatos, retired physicist Rick Parfitt, faced with cancellation of his home insurance policy over fire risk, cleared five feet around his home and poured concrete over much of that Zone 0 area. He replaced vent covers with tighter mesh and surrounded the base of his wood-sided home with an overlay of fire-resistant siding. For his efforts, which also included spending more than $7,000 to trim trees and cut down two redwoods and a fir, he was rewarded with a certificate from the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety that persuaded his insurer to maintain his coverage.

Rick Parfitt, a member of the Santa Clara County FireSafe Council, stands on concrete steps that he made at his home in Los Gatos. Parfitt has done significant work clearing flammable materials from five feet around his home. (Shae Hammond/Bay Area News Group)

The researchers’ conclusion about the importance of Zone 0 clearing bolsters the foundation for the new regulation mandating the five-foot clearance in areas of very high fire hazard, experts said. The state Board of Forestry said Friday it is working on the regulation, which is supposed to be finalized by Jan. 1, but declined to say when it would go into effect and when it would be enforced.

Hawks has been tracking the forestry board’s Zone 0 work, and believes they may not hit the Jan. 1 target. Once the regulation is finalized, new homes in high-fire-danger areas will have to comply when built, and existing houses will have three years to meet Zone 0, Hawks said.

“There have been a number of people pushing back on the regulation,” said Hawks, who attended public workshops the forestry board held while developing the regulation. Some opponents object to changing the aesthetics of their property, while others worry about cost.. The study will likely help people understand the need to adopt Zone 0, Hawks said.

“It’s really important that the regulation be grounded in science, not anecdotal evidence that you see from photographs or aerial imagery from some of these fires,” Hawks said.

Gollner — scheduled to speak at a Santa Clara County FireSafe Council board meeting open to the public via video Oct. 21 — said grants and insurance discounts could help get reluctant or cash-strapped homeowners to take action on home hardening and property clearing.

Elizabeth Stage, whose Oakland hills home barely escaped the deadly 1991 firestorm, and whose work as president of the Oakland FireSafe Council involves persuading residents to adopt Zone 0 measures, said the study would be a helpful, persuasive tool. Tax credits could help lower-income homeowners, Stage said.

Keeping insurance is a major impetus for people to take action to protect their homes, along with awareness about their level of wildfire risk, said Parfitt, a board member of the Santa Clara County FireSafe Council. Parfitt urged homeowners to take advantage of grants, information and help with mitigation work available via local FireSafe Councils and FireWise community groups.

Gollner noted that devastating blazes in areas such as Coffey Park in Santa Rosa that burned in the Tubbs Fire show that flatland neighborhoods, including many in the Bay Area, are at risk during times of extreme heat, dryness and wind.

“If it happens, it’s going to be really bad,” Gollner said. “There are so many areas where we could make improvements.”