The San Francisco 49ers are still undefeated with their big win against an NFC West opponent. They defeated the Arizona Cardinals 35-16. There are now just two undefeated teams left: the 49ers and the Philadelphia Eagles. There are numerous players who can be highlighted for their performances, while there are some who have to step up ahead of next week. Here is a look at the San Francisco 49ers week four slay and bombs.
San Francisco 49ers Slays
Running back Christian McCaffrey had himself a game. He broke records and helped the team as a whole break records. McCaffrey now holds the franchise record for consecutive games scoring a touchdown, this weekend being the 13th game in a row. All together on the day, McCaffrey scored four total touchdowns.
By now it is clear that McCaffrey can do it all whether it be to run, receive, or block. While running the ball, McCaffrey had 20 carries for 106 yards and three touchdowns, according to ESPN. He also had seven receptions for 71 yards and one touchdown. The midseason trade for McCaffrey last year continues to be a success for this 49ers offense.
For the second player to list as a slay, it was difficult to pick between quarterback Brock Purdy and wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk. In the end, Purdy accomplished a lot, and it has to go to him. All credit should still go to Aiyuk for how he played, putting up over 100 receiving yards. Purdy has to be highlighted with his smart decision-making, with only one completion in the game.
By the end of the matchup, Purdy completed 20 passes out of 21 for 283 yards and one passing touchdown, according to ESPN. He also will go down as having a rushing touchdown with the sneak to start the fourth quarter. The reason that Aiyuk could also go here was that Purdy and Aiyuk demonstrated a strong connection with each other. The longest pass between the two was for 42 yards. The major question surrounding Purdy heading into the season, especially after his surgery, was if he could throw it deep. He did it multiple times against the Cardinals.
San Francisco 49ers Bombs
While it is great to see cornerback Ambry Thomas was able to stay healthy for a game, he gave up some major plays. He was beaten by the receiver too many times, which ultimately led the Cardinals to score. By the end of the game, Thomas had three combined tackles, two solo, according to ESPN. While he finally got playing time this week, he could not make it count. He must improve if he wants to continue to get chances in games when it matters.
Cornerback Isaiah Oliver was another player that did not stand out against Arizona in week four. He was pulled out at one point and replaced with Thomas. Oliver was another player who kept getting beat by the receiver, ending the game with four tackles, according to ESPN. Oliver had a slow start to this season but got better as the weeks progressed. The game against the Cardinals was a step back, and he will need to step up next weekend.
Next up for the San Francisco 49ers is Sunday Night Football. The 4-0 49ers will stay at home and face the Dallas Cowboys. Dallas is 3-1, coming off of a major victory against the New England Patriots. The 49ers knocked the Cowboys out of playoffs last season and looking to push them to two losses this year. If the players who had a solid game do it again, this offense will be set. The players who slacked a bit in week four will need to step up.