The San Francisco 49ers and Las Vegas Raiders concluded their preseason in dramatic fashion with a tie that featured a frantic final play, including a tipped Hail Mary pass and several laterals.
In Las Vegas, 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy showcased his efficiency by completing 9 of 12 passes for 96 yards. However, he also threw an interception in the red zone and caused concern for his coach when he made a touchdown-saving tackle. “When it happened, I was hoping he wouldn’t tackle him,” said 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan. “Because it’s preseason, let him score. But the fact he tackled him and got him down and didn’t get hurt, I’m glad he didn’t.”
With just 16 seconds remaining, Daniel Carlson kicked a 43-yard field goal to tie the game at 24 for the Raiders (0-2-1). Earlier in the game, Joshua Dobbs connected with Jacob Cowing for a 10-yard touchdown pass that had given the 49ers (1-1-1) a 24-21 lead late in the third quarter.
The teams took different approaches as they prepared for the regular season just two weeks away. The 49ers opted to play most of their starters in the first quarter, while the Raiders fielded backups competing for roster spots.
With the deadline for roster cuts arriving on Tuesday, Raiders coach Antonio Pierce acknowledged the challenges of trimming the roster. “It’s not easy cutting 37 men and telling them they got to find somewhere else to play,” he noted.
Quarterback Nathan Peterman impressed during a surprise start, completing 12 of 19 passes for 108 yards and a touchdown. Carter Bradley, who had initially been named the starter, came in to lead the tying drive and finished with 9 of 21 passes for 169 yards, one touchdown, and one interception.
Additionally, Tyreik McAllister, another player vying for a roster spot, returned a punt for an 81-yard touchdown and also caught a 35-yard touchdown pass.
The 49ers aimed to closely evaluate their starters, including Deebo Samuel and George Kittle, who both made their preseason debuts. Kittle had a standout performance with three catches for 34 yards, including a highlight-reel 19-yard reception.
Not all key players were present; All-Pro running back Christian McCaffrey sat out due to a calf injury. Additionally, All-Pro left tackle Trent Williams and second-team All-Pro receiver Brandon Aiyuk were involved in contract disputes that remain unresolved as the season approaches.
Brock Purdy led the 49ers to an early 10-0 advantage and nearly extended the lead further. “It felt good to get out there with the guys and move the ball,” Purdy said. “We were all in rhythm.”
In their opening drive, the 49ers secured a 49-yard field goal by Jake Moody. Purdy then orchestrated a 12-play, 85-yard touchdown drive. However, his pass intended for Samuel was intercepted in the end zone by safety Chris Smith II after being knocked away by cornerback Sam Webb. Purdy then made his third tackle of his career, citing a need to prevent the opponent from gaining favorable field position.
In terms of injuries, the 49ers reported that left defensive ends Yetur Gross-Matos and Leonard Floyd both left the game with sprained knees and will undergo MRIs.
Looking ahead, the 49ers will host the New York Jets on September 9 to kick off the season, while the Raiders will visit the Los Angeles Chargers on September 8.