49ers Moved to 3-0 After Purdy Topped Cardinals
Brock Purdy threw four touchdown passes as the San Francisco 49ers defeated the Arizona Cardinals in Week 3.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Football
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The San Francisco 49ers advanced to an undefeated 3-0 record in the 2026 NFL season following their recent victory over the Arizona Cardinals. Quarterback Brock Purdy led the offensive effort by throwing four touchdown passes during the game.
Why it matters
The victory highlights the continued development of Brock Purdy, who head coach Kyle Shanahan recently compared to former pupils Matt Ryan and Matt Schaub. This performance reinforces the 49ers status as early-season contenders in their pursuit of a Super Bowl championship.
Brock Purdy has now recorded nine total touchdowns across the first three weeks of the season. The quarterback entered this campaign following a five-year contract extension signed last offseason.
The players
Brock Purdy
He is the starting quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers who was selected as the final pick in the 2022 NFL Draft.
Kyle Shanahan
He serves as the head coach for the San Francisco 49ers and has previously coached notable quarterbacks including Matt Ryan and Matt Schaub.
San Francisco 49ers
They are a professional football team based in the San Francisco Bay Area that competes in the National Football League.
Arizona Cardinals
They are a professional football team competing in the National Football League and served as the Week 3 opponent for San Francisco.
The details
Brock Purdy, the final pick of the 2022 NFL Draft, originally took over the starting role due to injuries sustained by Trey Lance and Jimmy Garoppolo. Despite throwing an interception on the first drive of the season opener, he has maintained high production throughout the team's perfect start.
Timeline
Kyle Shanahan coached Matt Schaub during the 2007-2009 seasons.
Kyle Shanahan coached Matt Ryan during the 2015 and 2016 seasons.
Brock Purdy was drafted and became the starter in 2022.
The 49ers played the Los Angeles Rams in Week 1 of the 2026 season.
The 49ers defeated the Arizona Cardinals in Week 3 of the 2026 season.
Season Trajectory
The 49ers current undefeated standing positions the franchise favorably within the competitive NFC playoff landscape early in the year. This momentum is critical as the team seeks to build a cushion against division rivals and secure a top seed for the postseason.
Brock Purdy is currently averaging three passing touchdowns per game through the first three weeks of the season. This high output establishes him as a top-tier fantasy option and indicates a potent offensive rhythm that should keep the team atop the division standings.
The takeaway
The successful integration of Purdy into the long-term roster provides stability for the 49ers offense as they navigate the remainder of the season. Consistent quarterback play remains the most reliable indicator of a team's potential to reach the playoffs.
Further reading
For more updates on the team, visit the San Francisco Football section.
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