Funviralpark The San Francisco rookie quarterback then shared why it’s important to keep your composure through the ups and downs of the game. Calmly returned to the 49ers’ bench at Allegiant Stadium and bounced back in the second half of the game.
“I’m pretty tough mentally,” Purdy told reporters. “A pick or missed read for George.
“I had to ride the highs, ride the lows and stay in-between. Keep things simple like that.”
Purdy is a cool customer, as far as his 49ers teammates know. Even when the heat hung over him to score goals against the San Francisco offense and lead his team to victory, the rookie remained calm. The 23-year-old finished the game with 22 of his 35 passes for 284 yards, two touchdowns and one interception.
Perhaps the most impressive thing about Purdy’s performance was how unperturbed he was while playing from behind. San Francisco trailed in the closing stages for the first time since Purdy substituted for the injured Jimmy Garoppolo in Week 13.
“I think it’s been great for him,” 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan said when asked if Purdy’s fighting through adversity was a point of growth. Had to – we had to come from behind, especially at the end…he wants to come back.
“He’s never been shy about his guns, made really good decisions, and found a way to fight and win throughout the game.”
The 49ers’ traditionally stingy defense gave the Raiders 34 points. This is the highest total they have given up since Kansas City his Chiefs scored his 44 points against them in Week 7. He gained 500 yards and averaged 7.6 yards per play, so Purdy and Co. had to respond.
Purdy didn’t just manage the game, though. He helped the Engineers comeback after falling 10 points. The Iowa State graduate knows how important his demeanor is to keeping San Francisco’s offense productive.
“Obviously, the moment I go down or start doing something like that or start panicking, everybody feels it and feeds on it,” Purdy said. It’s my job to keep things nice and calm, cool and collected. Even if someone else messes it up.
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Shanahan added: [I’m] It is difficult for everyone. So there are some things I know he missed. Especially all the personnel and staff, they’re confused, the protection things they’ve done.
“But he was able to keep his head out of harm’s way most of the time. He stuck with it and made more good plays than bad. That’s the key.”
Purdy’s coaches and teammates appreciate his humble personality. While the burden fell on him, Purdy gave credit to the entire team.
“It was a good experience for all of us,” Purdy said. “The offense did their part, the defense did their part, and the special teams rounded it out.”
