Brock Purdy took the field for his first NFL start last season for the San Francisco 49ers against Tampa Bay, questions arose regarding his potential as an NFL quarterback. He overcame a botched audible on his first snap and a heavy blitz to dismantle the Buccaneers defense, showing he might be better than his seventh-round draft placement. Purdy is now the firmly established starter for San Francisco and one of the NFL’s most efficient passers. In his previous game against the Bucs, Purdy threw 16 for 21 for 185 yards and two TDs in a 35-7 win. Tampa Bay coach Todd Bowles said, “I hope the results are different.” Purdy has made 17 starts in the regular season and playoffs, posting a 112.5 passer rating with 29 TDs and seven INTs. After a three-game slump when he threw five interceptions, Purdy displayed his best game last week going 19 for 26 for 293 yards and three TDs. Mayfield’s focus on ball security has been pivotal for Tampa Bay. He has thrown for 2,143 yards, 14 touchdowns and five interceptions. Niners defensive end Nick Bosa said there’s no ill will between him and Mayfield despite a memorable celebration back in 2019. Tampa Bay’s defense fared well against Tennessee last Sunday. It limited Tennessee to a pair of field goals and 209 total offensive yards, with a solid four sacks and an interception, and 13 quarterback hits. The Niners’ pass rush appeared rejuvenated last week, contributing to their five sacks against the Jaguars.
