San Francisco 49ers linebacker Fred Warner had Brock Purdy’s back after winning the NFC championship game on Sunday.
In a postgame interview, Warner was asked about Purdy’s performance, in which the second-year quarterback led an impressive comeback to defeat the Detroit Lions, 34—31.
The veteran linebacker couldn’t help but tweak Purdy’s critics, namely those who condescendingly called him a “game manager” toward the end of the 2023 season.
“Heck of a game manager, wow,” Warner joked. “Managed the heck out of that game, boy. He’s the reason we’re going to have a chance to win us a ring. I love him.”
"Heck of a game manager, wow. Managed the heck out of that game."
— 49ers on NBCS (@NBCS49ers) January 29, 2024
Fred Warner on Brock Purdy ???? pic.twitter.com/R2K1K94knT
Despite some early struggles in Sunday’s game, including a costly interception in the second quarter, the 23-year-old was locked in for the second half and helped spearhead clinical offensive drives, one after the other.
Down 24—7 at halftime, Purdy and the 49ers mounted the largest comeback in NFC title game history (tied with the 2012 49ers) as San Francisco hit back with 17 unanswered points in the third quarter. The 49ers scored on all five of their second-half drives before kneeling to clinch the victory.
Purdy finished the game with 267 yards and one touchdown pass. He also showcased his ability to extend plays on the ground, recording 48 rushing yards.
Kyle Terada/USA TODAY
Purdy is set to become the third-youngest starting quarterback in Super Bowl history, and he can become the youngest QB ever to win the Big Game.
The hordes of NFL pundits calling Purdy a “game manager” arguably had to eat their words Sunday night and likely are running out of reasons to criticize the young signal-caller as San Francisco continues its postseason run.
The 49ers will play the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LVIII at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas on Feb. 11.
