Derek Carr and the New Orleans starting offense finally came alive with a 95-yard touchdown drive against San Francisco’s backup defenders, but the 49ers defeated the Saints 16-10 on Sunday night.
“It’s always tough in the preseason because you’re only calling basic plays. No one wants to reveal too much,” Carr said. “But the competitor in you still wants to go out there and make something happen. So, getting that touchdown was a relief. It felt good to show we can score.”
Joshua Dobbs ran for a touchdown and Jake Moody kicked three field goals for the 49ers (1-1), who rested most of their key players except quarterback Brock Purdy.
The 49ers were missing three starting offensive linemen, their top four receivers, their top three running backs, All-Pro tight end George Kittle, and All-Pro fullback Kyle Juszczyk due to injuries, contract issues, or rest.
This left Purdy playing with mostly backups, and the results were poor, with the 49ers getting only one first down and having two three-and-outs.
Purdy completed 2 of 6 passes for 11 yards and was fortunate not to throw an interception when a pass intended for a backup tight end was broken up for an incomplete pass.
“I think it was good to get out there, feel the game speed, and go through reads,” Purdy said. “It wasn’t as productive as I hoped, but that’s why it’s preseason—to get a feel for it.”
Carr and the Saints’ starting offense also struggled initially, with back-to-back three-and-outs against mostly backup defenders before finally putting together a successful drive.
The offensive line created running lanes, and Carr completed 5 of 6 passes for 42 yards, including a 7-yard pass to rookie Bub Means on a fourth-and-5.
