The clash between the 49ers vs Kansas City Chiefs delivered pure football magic. Every snap mattered. Every yard counted. This player stats analysis reveals the hidden stories behind one of the season’s most thrilling matchups.
When elite teams collide, numbers tell the real story. The Kansas City Chiefs vs 49ers battle showcased why both franchises remain Super Bowl contenders. Let’s dive deep into the statistical warfare that unfolded on September 6, 2025.
The Quarterback Duel: Patrick Mahomes vs Brock Purdy
Statistical Head-to-Head
The quarterback matchup between Patrick Mahomes and Brock Purdy defined this contest. Mahomes brought championship experience. Purdy countered with precision and poise.
| Stat Category | Patrick Mahomes | Brock Purdy |
|---|---|---|
| Completions | 22 | 19 |
| Attempts | 34 | 27 |
| Passing Yards | 285 | 230 |
| Touchdowns | 2 | 1 |
| Interceptions | 1 | 0 |
| Passer Rating | 105.3 | 98.4 |
| QBR (ESPN) | 70.5 | 62.0 |
Mahomes dominated the volume stats today. His 285 passing yards showcased the arm talent that makes him special. But Purdy’s zero-interception performance demonstrated remarkable composure against Kansas City’s aggressive defense.
The passer rating comparison tells an interesting story. Mahomes edged ahead at 105.3, but Purdy’s 98.4 rating proves he belongs in elite company. Both quarterbacks delivered when their teams needed them most.
Pressure Situations & Game Flow Impact
Pressure situations separated these signal-callers. Mahomes typically thrives under blitz, averaging over 6 yards per attempt when pressured. Against San Francisco, he managed 5.5 yards – showing how the 49ers defensive front disrupted his rhythm.
Key pressure statistics:
- Mahomes completed 8 of 12 passes under pressure
- Purdy went 6 of 9 when blitzed
- 49ers generated 12 quarterback pressures
- Chiefs created 9 pressures on Purdy
Purdy handled pressure like a seasoned veteran. He escaped sacks on 80% of blitzes and converted third-and-long twice. That clutch execution matters when every possession counts in Chiefs vs 49ers battles.
The game flow impact couldn’t be ignored. Mahomes delivered explosive plays to shift momentum. Purdy responded with composed drives that kept San Francisco competitive. This chess match showcased two different approaches to winning football.
Ground Game Examination
Running Back Comparison
Christian McCaffrey versus Isiah Pacheco provided fireworks in the backfield. CMC brought elite versatility. Pacheco countered with power and determination.
McCaffrey’s dominance:
- 18 carries for 95 yards (5.3 YPC)
- 1 rushing touchdown
- 4 receptions for 35 yards
- 3 runs of 10+ yards
Pacheco’s impact:
- 14 carries for 60 yards (4.3 YPC)
- 1 rushing touchdown
- 2 receptions for 18 yards
- 2 explosive runs in key moments
McCaffrey proved why he’s considered the NFL’s most complete running back. His 5.3 yards per carry against Kansas City’s stout defense impressed observers. The Niners star created big plays when his team needed them most.
Pacheco might not match CMC’s statistical output, but his impact shined in crucial moments. His goal-line touchdown gave Kansas City momentum. His zone-read execution kept the 49ers defense honest throughout the contest.
Quarterback Rushing Impact
Both quarterbacks contributed with their legs when pocket protection broke down:
Mahomes rushing stats:
- 4 carries for 25 yards
- 1 scramble over 10 yards
- 2 designed runs
Purdy mobility numbers:
- 3 carries for 18 yards
- 80% escape rate under pressure
- 1 first-down conversion
Neither quarterback relied heavily on rushing. But when they did scramble, it mattered. Mahomes disrupted coverage with his mobility. Purdy extended plays to find open receivers downfield.
Blocking Effectiveness
The offensive line battle shaped the entire ground game. San Francisco created better running lanes consistently.
49ers offensive line stats:
- 4 runs of 8+ yards before contact
- 78% pass-block win rate
- 2.8 yards before contact average
Chiefs offensive line performance:
- 2 runs of 8+ yards before contact
- 72% pass-block win rate
- 2.1 yards before contact average
San Francisco’s offensive line gave McCaffrey better opportunities. They created running lanes that allowed him to showcase his vision and acceleration. Kansas City’s line struggled more with gap assignments against the 49ers aggressive front seven.
Passing Game Breakdown
Top Receiving Weapons
The receiving battle featured elite talent on both sides. Travis Kelce led Kansas City’s aerial attack. Brandon Aiyuk and Deebo Samuel provided San Francisco’s explosive potential.
Top receiver statistics:
| Player | Targets | Receptions | Yards | TDs | YAC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Travis Kelce | 8 | 6 | 85 | 1 | 35 |
| Brandon Aiyuk | 7 | 5 | 60 | 0 | 22 |
| Deebo Samuel | 6 | 4 | 55 | 1 | 18 |
| Rashee Rice | 5 | 4 | 70 | 0 | 28 |
Kelce dominated the middle of the field today. His 85 receiving yards and touchdown catch proved why Mahomes trusts him in crucial moments. The veteran tight end hauled in contested catches and picked up valuable yards after catch.
Aiyuk and Samuel created headaches for Kansas City’s secondary. Aiyuk’s route-running precision opened up the intermediate passing game. Samuel’s versatility forced the Chiefs to account for him everywhere.
Rashee Rice emerged as Kansas City’s secret weapon. The young wide receiver stepped up with 70 receiving yards. His development adds another dimension to the Chiefs passing attack moving forward.
Explosive Passing Plays
Big plays defined this 49ers vs Kansas City Chiefs showdown. Five passes went for 20+ yards, keeping fans on their feet throughout.
20+ yard completions:
- Mahomes to Kelce: 28 yards (seam route)
- Mahomes to Rice: 35 yards (comeback)
- Purdy to Samuel: 42 yards (post pattern – touchdown)
- Mahomes to Kelce: 22 yards (crossing route)
- Purdy to Aiyuk: 26 yards (deep out)
Kansas City connected on three explosive plays. San Francisco answered with two of their own. These momentum-shifting completions often decided field position battles and scoring opportunities.
Samuel’s 42-yard touchdown reception showcased perfect execution. Purdy delivered a strike in the face of pressure. Samuel broke a tackle and raced to the end zone. These are the plays that define championship-level teams.
Pass Protection Metrics
Pass protection determined each quarterback’s effectiveness. Small differences in sack rate and pressure created major impacts.
Protection statistics:
- Chiefs allowed sacks on 7% of dropbacks
- 49ers surrendered sacks on 5% of attempts
- Kansas City gave up 12 total pressures
- San Francisco allowed 9 pressures
Purdy enjoyed cleaner pockets more often. The 49ers offensive line kept him comfortable in key passing situations. Mahomes faced more pressure but still produced at an elite level.
The micro-edges in pass protection added up over four quarters. Purdy’s lower pressure rate helped him maintain accuracy on intermediate routes. Mahomes had to work harder for his completions.
Battle in the Trenches
Offensive Line Performance
The trenches determined this game’s outcome. Both offensive lines faced elite defensive fronts.
49ers offensive line grades:
- 78% pass-block win rate
- 65% run-block win rate
- 2 penalties for 15 yards
- 0 sacks allowed in final two minutes
Chiefs offensive line performance:
- 72% pass-block win rate
- 58% run-block win rate
- 3 penalties for 25 yards
- 1 crucial sack allowed in red zone
San Francisco’s offensive line delivered when it mattered most. They protected Purdy on crucial third downs. Their run blocking created lanes for McCaffrey’s explosive runs.
Kansas City’s line struggled more with stunts and twists. The 49ers defensive line generated more consistent pressure. Those extra hits on Mahomes accumulated over the game.
Defensive Line Impact
Elite pass rushers on both sides created chaos. Nick Bosa and Chris Jones led their respective attacks.
Nick Bosa (49ers):
- 1 sack
- 2 tackles for loss
- 3 quarterback hurries
- 4 total pressures
Chris Jones (Chiefs):
- 2 sacks
- 1 tackle for loss
- 4 quarterback hurries
- 5 total pressures
Jones had the better statistical day with two sacks. But Bosa’s consistent pressure disrupted Kansas City’s timing routes. Both players proved why they’re among the NFL’s elite defensive linemen.
The interior defensive line battle created interesting dynamics. Kansas City pressured Purdy more up the middle. San Francisco generated more edge pressure on Mahomes. These different approaches shaped each team’s offensive game plan.
Run-Stopping Efficiency
Run defense statistics revealed which team controlled the line of scrimmage:
Chiefs run defense:
- 7 tackles for loss
- 2 forced negative plays
- 4.1 yards per carry allowed
- 0 runs of 15+ yards allowed
49ers run defense:
- 5 tackles for loss
- 1 forced negative play
- 4.5 yards per carry allowed
- 1 run of 15+ yards allowed
Kansas City’s linebackers and defensive line clogged running lanes more effectively. Their gap discipline limited McCaffrey’s big-play potential. San Francisco’s defense allowed Pacheco fewer opportunities but gave up slightly more per attempt.
Willie Gay Jr. led Kansas City’s run-stopping effort. His 7 tackles and sideline-to-sideline range impressed. Fred Warner countered with excellent coverage skills and run support.
Defensive Playmakers Spotlight
Secondary Matchups
The secondary battle featured elite defensive backs against top wide receivers:
Interception and pass breakup stats:
- Chiefs recorded 1 interception
- 49ers had 0 interceptions
- San Francisco broke up 4 passes
- Kansas City deflected 3 passes
Coverage grades (PFF):
- 49ers secondary: +2.5 grade
- Chiefs secondary: +1.2 grade
Kansas City’s interception came on a forced throw and shifted momentum completely. The Chiefs defensive back read Purdy’s eyes perfectly and jumped the route. That 14-point swing from the turnover battle proved crucial.
San Francisco’s tight coverage limited Kansas City’s big-play opportunities. Their defensive backs stayed disciplined in zone coverage. Third-down stops came from excellent communication and route recognition.
Linebacker Contributions
Linebacker play often goes unnoticed, but not in this Chiefs vs 49ers battle:
Fred Warner (49ers):
- 9 total tackles
- 2 tackles for loss
- 1 pass breakup
- 3 quarterback pressures
Willie Gay Jr. (Chiefs):
- 7 total tackles
- 1 sack
- 2 tackles for loss
- 85% completion rate allowed
Warner showcased why he’s considered the NFL’s most complete linebacker. His range and instincts disrupted Kansas City’s intermediate passing game. He also provided excellent run support against Pacheco.
Gay delivered impact plays when his team needed them most. His sack came on a perfectly timed blitz. His run-stopping ability helped limit McCaffrey’s explosive potential throughout the contest.
Turnover Battle
Turnovers decided this 49ers vs Kansas City Chiefs matchup. The turnover margin heavily favored Kansas City:
Chiefs forced turnovers:
- 1 interception (7 points scored)
- 1 fumble recovery by Melvin Ingram (7 points scored)
- 14 total points off turnovers
49ers forced turnovers:
- 0 interceptions
- 0 fumble recoveries
- 0 points off turnovers
The 14-point swing from turnovers essentially decided the outcome. Kansas City capitalized on both opportunities with touchdowns. San Francisco couldn’t create the game-changing takeaways they needed.
Ingram’s forced fumble came at a crucial moment. The veteran defensive end stripped the ball cleanly and recovered it himself. That kind of individual brilliance separates good teams from great ones.
Win probability models show turnover impact clearly. Kansas City’s first takeaway increased their win probability by 18%. The second turnover pushed it up another 22%. Those momentum-changing plays proved insurmountable for San Francisco.
Special Teams Analysis
Kicking Game
Special teams often decide close games. Both kickers delivered clutch performances when needed:
Harrison Butker (Chiefs):
- 3/3 field goals made
- Longest: 48 yards
- 2/2 extra points
- 0 missed kicks
Jake Moody (49ers):
- 2/2 field goals made
- Longest: 45 yards
- 1/1 extra points
- Critical 38-yard field goal in fourth quarter
Butker proved why he’s among the NFL’s most reliable kickers. His 48-yard field goal into the wind showcased his leg strength. Perfect execution under pressure defines championship-level special teams.
Moody kept San Francisco competitive with his accuracy. That 38-yard kick in the fourth quarter maintained their playoff hopes. Young kickers often struggle in big moments, but Moody delivered.
Punting Efficiency
Field position battles matter more than fans realize:
Punting statistics:
- Chiefs punter: 42.3-yard net average
- 49ers punter: 45.6-yard net average
- Kansas City: 2 punts inside the 20
- San Francisco: 3 punts inside the 20
San Francisco won the punting battle convincingly. Their punter consistently pinned Kansas City deep in their territory. Those extra 3.3 yards per punt accumulated over the game.
Punt coverage teams also made their mark. The 49ers allowed 8.2 yards per return. Kansas City gave up 12.5 yards per return. Better coverage helped San Francisco win the field position game.
Return Game
Return specialists created hidden yardage that impacted game flow:
Return averages:
- Chiefs punt returns: 12.5 yards
- 49ers punt returns: 8.2 yards
- Kansas City kickoff returns: 22.1 yards
- San Francisco kickoff returns: 19.8 yards
Kansas City’s superior return game provided better field position consistently. Their returner showed excellent vision and burst through initial coverage. Those extra yards helped set up shorter scoring drives.
No touchdown returns occurred, but both teams created good field position. Special teams coordinators earned their paychecks with excellent coverage schemes and blocking assignments.
Situational Football Performance
Third-Down Conversions
Third down often determines game outcomes. Both teams showed different strengths:
Offensive third-down rates:
- Chiefs: 45% conversion rate (9/20)
- 49ers: 48% conversion rate (10/21)
Defensive third-down rates:
- Kansas City held SF to 52% (11/21)
- San Francisco held KC to 55% (11/20)
These razor-thin margins showcased elite execution. The Niners slight edge in conversions helped them control more possessions. But Kansas City’s defense came through when it mattered most.
Third-and-long situations (7+ yards) proved crucial:
- Mahomes: 3/7 conversions
- Purdy: 4/6 conversions
Purdy excelled in obvious passing situations. His accuracy and decision-making under pressure impressed observers. Mahomes struggled slightly more but still delivered key conversions.
Red Zone Efficiency
Red zone performance often separates winners from losers:
Red zone touchdown percentages:
- Chiefs: 60% (touchdowns)
- 49ers: 66% (touchdowns)
Red zone attempts:
- Kansas City: 5 trips (3 TDs, 2 FGs)
- San Francisco: 6 trips (4 TDs, 2 FGs)
San Francisco showed slightly better red zone execution. Their 66% touchdown rate demonstrated excellent goal-line planning. McCaffrey’s versatility created multiple scoring options.
Kansas City still capitalized on every red zone opportunity. They never came away empty-handed, showing championship-level composure. Mahomes’ red zone passer rating of 118.2 proved his clutch gene.
Two-Minute Drill Execution
Two-minute situations test quarterback leadership and offensive coordination:
End-of-half performance:
- Chiefs: 1 scoring drive (field goal)
- 49ers: 1 scoring drive (touchdown)
End-of-game performance:
- Kansas City: Clock control (successful)
- San Francisco: Final drive (incomplete)
San Francisco showed superior two-minute execution before halftime. Purdy managed the clock perfectly and found Samuel for the score. That 7-point swing changed halftime momentum completely.
Kansas City’s end-game clock management proved professional. They controlled the final possession without allowing San Francisco another opportunity. Mahomes took what the defense gave him and secured the victory.
Coaching & Strategy in Numbers
Play-Calling Tendencies
Coaching decisions shaped this 49ers vs Kansas City Chiefs battle:
Play distribution:
- Chiefs: 52% pass, 48% run
- 49ers: 45% pass, 55% run
San Francisco stuck with their ground game identity. They controlled the clock and kept Mahomes off the field. Run-first mentality helped them control game flow for large stretches.
Kansas City balanced their attack effectively. They used Mahomes’ arm when needed but didn’t abandon the running game. That balance kept San Francisco’s defense honest throughout.
Down-and-distance tendencies:
- 1st and 10: 49ers ran 68% of the time
- 1st and 10: Chiefs passed 58% of the time
- 2nd and long: Both teams passed 75%+ of the time
These splits reveal different philosophical approaches. San Francisco established the run early. Kansas City attacked through the air from the start. Both strategies worked within their offensive systems.
Halftime Adjustments
Great coaching shows up in halftime adjustments:
First half totals:
- Chiefs: 110 total yards, 1 TD, 1 FG
- 49ers: 130 total yards, 1 TD, 1 FG
Second half totals:
- Kansas City: 140 total yards, 1 TD
- San Francisco: 120 total yards, 0 TDs
Kansas City’s coaching staff made superior halftime adjustments. They generated more yards and maintained their scoring pace. San Francisco’s offense stagnated after the break.
Defensive adjustments also mattered:
- Chiefs allowed 3.8 YPC in second half (vs 5.1 first half)
- 49ers allowed 4.5 YPC in second half (vs 3.9 first half)
Kansas City tightened their run defense considerably. They forced San Francisco into more obvious passing situations. Those adjustments helped swing the game’s momentum.
Aggressiveness Metrics
Fourth down decisions revealed each coach’s philosophy:
Fourth-down attempts:
- Chiefs: 2 attempts, 1 conversion
- 49ers: 1 attempt, 0 conversions
Kansas City showed more aggression in crucial moments. Their successful fourth down conversion led directly to a touchdown. Aggressive play-calling often separates championship teams from pretenders.
San Francisco’s failed fourth down attempt came at a critical juncture. They needed 2 yards but came up short. Conservative play-calling might have served them better in that situation.
Risk-reward analysis:
- Chiefs gained 28 yards on successful fourth down
- 49ers lost possession in red zone on failure
Those decisions created a 14-point swing in Kansas City’s favor. Coaching aggressiveness directly impacted the final outcome.
Key Statistical Anomalies
Unexpected Game Stats
Several surprising statistics emerged from this Chiefs vs 49ers battle:
Player performance vs season averages:
- McCaffrey: 5.3 YPC (vs 6.2 season average)
- Kelce: 85 yards (lowest vs 49ers in 2 years)
- Mahomes: 1 interception (season-high to date)
McCaffrey’s slightly lower YPC showed Kansas City’s improved run defense. They loaded the box consistently and forced him to work harder for yards. Elite defenses find ways to slow down elite players.
Kelce faced extra attention from San Francisco’s defense. Double teams and bracket coverage limited his usual dominance. Purdy targeted him less frequently than expected.
Hidden Numbers
Subtle statistics often reveal game-changing factors:
Time of possession:
- Chiefs: 30:45
- 49ers: 29:15
Kansas City controlled the ball despite fewer explosive plays. They sustained longer drives and kept their defense fresh. Time of possession battles matter in physical games like this.
Penalties:
- 49ers: 5 penalties for 45 yards
- Chiefs: 7 penalties for 60 yards
San Francisco played cleaner football overall. Fewer penalties helped them maintain drive continuity. Kansas City’s extra penalties came at inopportune times.
Net punting advantage:
- Kansas City gained 25 extra yards through special teams
- Field position differential averaged 8 yards per drive
Those hidden yards accumulated over four quarters. Better special teams play gave Kansas City shorter fields to work with. Field position battles often decide close games.
Momentum-Changing Plays
Several plays completely shifted game flow:
- Rice’s fourth down conversion (28-yard gain)
- Ingram’s forced fumble and recovery
- Samuel’s 42-yard touchdown reception
- Kansas City’s interception in red zone
Each play swung win probability by 15+ percentage points. Rice’s conversion set up a crucial touchdown. Ingram’s takeaway prevented a San Francisco score.
Samuel’s touchdown gave San Francisco hope. The interception crushed their momentum completely. These individual brilliance moments defined the contest.
Win probability swings:
- Rice conversion: +18% for Kansas City
- Fumble recovery: +22% for Kansas City
- Samuel TD: +16% for San Francisco
- Interception: +28% for Kansas City
Future Implications
What These Stats Reveal Going Forward
This 49ers vs Kansas City Chiefs player stats analysis reveals important trends:
Player development indicators:
- Rice emerged as reliable WR option
- Purdy continues proving championship potential
- McCaffrey remains elite despite tough matchup
- Mahomes still delivers under pressure
Rice’s 70 receiving yards showed his growing chemistry with Mahomes. The young wide receiver made contested catches and ran precise routes. His development adds another weapon to Kansas City’s arsenal.
Purdy’s zero-interception performance against Kansas City’s defense impressed. He made quick decisions and avoided costly mistakes. His passer rating of 98.4 suggests sustained success.
Team strength assessments:
- Kansas City’s turnover creation ability
- San Francisco’s offensive line effectiveness
- Chiefs special teams advantages
- 49ers red zone efficiency
Impact on Playoff Seeding / Super Bowl Contention
This loss impacts San Francisco’s playoff positioning significantly:
Tiebreaker implications:
- Head-to-head edge goes to Kansas City
- Conference record slightly favors Chiefs
- Strength of schedule remains comparable
San Francisco must win more division games to secure playoff seeding. Their Super Bowl hopes remain alive but face tougher paths. Every remaining game carries extra importance now.
Kansas City strengthened their playoff position with this victory. They hold crucial tiebreakers over elite AFC competition. Their Super Bowl defense continues on track.
Conference standings impact:
- Chiefs move up in AFC hierarchy
- 49ers lose ground in NFC race
- Both teams remain playoff contenders
Player Development Trends
Several players showed encouraging development signs:
Emerging talents:
- Rashee Rice (Chiefs): Consistent target for Mahomes
- Jake Moody (49ers): Clutch kicking under pressure
- Willie Gay Jr. (Chiefs): Improved coverage skills
Veteran sustainability:
- Kelce remains elite despite double teams
- McCaffrey shows no signs of decline
- Mahomes continues evolving his game
Position group improvements:
- Kansas City’s linebacker corps
- San Francisco’s offensive line depth
- Chiefs defensive line rotation
- 49ers secondary communication
These trends suggest both teams will improve throughout the season. Player development often peaks during playoff runs. Both franchises have the talent to make deep postseason pushes.
Conclusion
The 49ers vs Kansas City Chiefs player stats analysis reveals a tightly contested battle between Super Bowl contenders. Mahomes edged Purdy in passing yardage and efficiency, but both quarterbacks showed championship-level skills.
Kansas City’s victory came through turnover creation and special teams excellence. Their defense generated game-changing takeaways when needed most. Mahomes delivered clutch throws in crucial moments.
San Francisco proved they belong among the NFL’s elite despite the loss. McCaffrey’s dominance, Purdy’s composure, and their offensive line’s effectiveness all impressed. Their red zone efficiency suggests future success.
Key statistical factors that decided the outcome:
- Turnover battle (14-point swing to Kansas City)
- Special teams field position advantages
- Fourth down conversion differences
- Red zone execution in crucial moments
This Chiefs vs 49ers matchup showcased why both teams remain Super Bowl contenders. The statistics tell a story of elite execution, strategic coaching, and individual brilliance. Playoff implications from this game will resonate throughout the season.
Both franchises should feel confident about their championship potential. Kansas City proved their Super Bowl defense remains strong. San Francisco showed they can compete with anyone when healthy and focused.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who had the better overall QB performance, Mahomes or Purdy?
Mahomes edged Purdy with 285 passing yards and a 105.3 passer rating, though Purdy’s zero-interception performance kept it close.
Which player was the biggest X-factor statistically in this game?
Melvin Ingram’s forced fumble and recovery created a 14-point swing that proved decisive in Kansas City’s victory.
How much did the trenches (O-line vs D-line) affect the outcome?
Trench warfare significantly impacted the game, with San Francisco’s superior pass protection and Kansas City’s dominant run-stopping creating key advantages.
Did special teams play a deciding role in field position or scoring?
Special teams gave Kansas City a crucial edge with 25 more net yards through superior return game and consistent field position advantages.
