San Francisco Holds Off Washington to Remain Unbeaten

San Francisco kept its unbeaten record Monday by making the defensive plays required to protect a lead its offense could no longer extend.

The 49ers defeated Washington 23–17 at Levi’s Stadium, improving to 6–0 after the Commanders turned a 23–3 third-quarter deficit into a one-possession game.

Christian McCaffrey rushed for two first-half touchdowns, and Brock Purdy connected with George Kittle for another score as San Francisco built a 20–3 halftime advantage. Purdy finished with 264 passing yards and a touchdown. The early production gave the 49ers room, but the second half required them to defend it.

Washington reduced the margin through Jayden Daniels touchdown passes to Stefon Diggs and Rachaad White. The latter brought the Commanders within six points with 9:22 remaining in the fourth quarter, leaving enough time for another meaningful possession.

The opportunity came near San Francisco’s goal line. With Washington facing fourth down from the 49ers’ 17-yard line late in the game, safety Malik Mustapha broke up a pass intended for Treylon Burks. The stop prevented the Commanders from converting their comeback into a lead.

Washington received one final possession after forcing a punt, but the game ended with Romello Height and Keion White combining to sack Daniels. San Francisco’s defense supplied the last answer after the offense had done most of its scoring earlier.

The result leaves two distinct parts of the performance to assess. The 49ers established a substantial advantage through first-half execution, then allowed Washington back into contention. They also won the late downs that decided whether that rally would become a completed comeback.

An unbeaten record does not require every win to look the same. Monday’s version depended on early scoring and two late defensive interventions. Washington made the margin uncomfortable; San Francisco kept it intact.