McCaffrey Impresses: Total Domination with 49ers vs. Falcons, Heading to MVP

McCaffrey Shines in 49ers’ Victory Over the Falcons

In a match where a standout night was expected for running back Christian McCaffrey, the San Francisco 49ers achieved a resounding victory over the Atlanta Falcons with a score of 20-10. McCaffrey, once again, proved to be the offensive engine of the team, solidifying his position as one of the most consistent players in the league. The 49ers coach, Kyle Shanahan, had urged his team to make 40 carries, a figure that would reflect dominance on the line of scrimmage and confidence in McCaffrey. Although the 40 carries were not reached, the team achieved an impressive total of 39, accumulating 174 yards and an average of 4.5 yards per carry, their best mark of the season. Tight end George Kittle, who returned from an injury, played a crucial role, as he anticipated by proposing that McCaffrey be named NFC Player of the Week. Kittle’s presence not only strengthened the running game, but also diverted the defense’s attention, opening up opportunities for McCaffrey. McCaffrey had a stellar performance, with 129 rushing yards on 24 carries and two touchdowns. He also led the team in receptions, accumulating 72 yards on seven receptions, including a crucial 17-yard reception on third down. His 201 total yards were his highest as a 49ers player, representing 62% of the team’s total yards.

He’s huge. He’s the most consistent player I’ve been around. He just allows you to stay on schedule. He gets every yard in the run game and more, and what he does in the passing game… it’s rare you throw him the ball and don’t get a catch.

Kyle Shanahan

McCaffrey’s performance led him to set notable records:

• His sixth game this season with more than 50 rushing yards and 50 receiving yards, the most in NFL history through a team’s first seven games.
• His ninth career game with more than 100 rushing yards and 50 receiving yards, tied with Jim Brown and Priest Holmes for third in NFL history.
• He joined Roger Craig (1988) as the only 49ers with seven consecutive games of 100+ total yards to start a season.

McCaffrey leads the NFL in total yards from scrimmage (981) and is tied for fourth place with six total touchdowns. At this pace, he is projected to surpass 1,000 yards both rushing and receiving, and could even break the NFL record for receiving yards by a running back in a season.

49ers tight end George Kittle, who returned Sunday night after missing five games with a hamstring injury, said his goal for this week was for Christian McCaffrey, above, to be named NFC Player of the Week.Despite the absence of Fred Warner, the 49ers showed resilience on defense, with the replacement, Tatum Bethune, leading the team with 10 tackles. The defense limited Atlanta to 292 yards and only 62 rushing yards.