SANTA CLARA — Brock Birdie's will to win was on full display in the 49ers' 33-19 loss to the Baltimore Ravens, and while that's mostly a good thing, the quarterback needs to adjust his decision-making going forward.
Purdy uncharacteristically threw four interceptions in the loss, but his third may have been his worst finish. Several penalty flags were already on the field when quarterback George Kittle lifted the ball, but it was intercepted by Ravens safety Kyle Hamilton.
“When I scrambled I saw some flags thrown,” Purdy said. “I didn't know exactly what it was or who it was, so my mind was trying to make a play. Honestly, I can't make a bad play worse. I just have to know.
“If I throw my body back in the middle of the field with a guy on George, that's pretty dumb for me. So, I've got to throw the ball and live another game and be ready to punt and punt. So, I've got to learn the hard way. One.
At that point, Purdy's desire to make up for two previous interceptions influenced his decision-making. At the time, the 49ers were down by just five points with plenty of games left to play.
Purdy realized that it wasn't all up to him to win the game or force plays when they weren't there, but he felt the need to make up for his mistakes. However, sometimes the best decision is to send a punt unit into the field.
“I think it's easier to do that when you don't have a lot of turnovers or the game is a close game,” Purdy said. “But when I have things in my mind, it's like, OK, you messed up twice, I've got to find a way to make a play.
“That's where I think I need to grow and be ready. Like I said, a bad play happens, throw the ball, intercept the ball, be able to tackle the game more. Those are things I need to understand better.
With the 49ers returning to the East Coast in a short week to face the Washington Commanders on New Year's Day, Purdy's chance to bounce back will come quickly.
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