Full Breakdown
49ers Dominate Chargers in Preseason Showcase
8/21/2026, 12:25:26 PM
Core Event
The San Francisco 49ers defeated the Los Angeles Chargers 41-17 in the second preseason matchup. Scoring came from a punt return TD by Jacob Cowing, a 7-yard run by Sincere McCormick, a 1-yard plunge by Khalil Herbert, and a 28-yard pass from DJ Uiagalelei to Jerand Bradley with a two-point conversion. The Chargers’ points were a 21-yard field goal by Cameron Dicker and a 28-yard punt-return TD by Cowing.
Background & Context
Both teams used the game to evaluate depth-chart candidates ahead of final roster cuts. The 49ers were missing several starters, while the Chargers limited starter participation, giving quarterback Justin Herbert only one series. A joint practice earlier in the week let coaches compare schemes before the game.
Data & Statistics
- Score: 49ers 41, Chargers 17.
- Passing: Brock Purdy 4-of-6 for 29 yards; DJ Uiagalelei 6-of-9 for 120 yards, 1 TD; Mac Jones 6-of-13 for 89 yards.
- Rushing: Sincere McCormick 53 yards on six carries; Khalil Herbert 1-yard TD run; Adrian Martinez 9-yard TD run.
- Receiving: Jacob Cowing 83-yard punt return TD; Jerand Bradley 28-yard TD reception; Jordan Watkins 17-yard TD reception.
- Penalties & Punts: Chargers recorded eight punts, seven penalties, and eight first downs.
Official Statements & Responses
49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan praised rookie wideout De’Zhaun Stribling’s hands and consistency after limited snaps and noted Christian McCaffrey would be fully active for the regular season.
Quarterback Justin Herbert said the joint practice provided valuable live repetitions, stressing the importance of “different defenses” for offensive preparation.
On-the-Ground Reports
The 49ers’ defense dominated the two-minute drill, stopping the Chargers in the red zone. Defensive ends Sam Okuayinonu and linebacker Jaden Dugger combined for a key tackle on Chargers running back Omarion Hampton. Cornerback Renardo Green delivered a solid open-field tackle before exiting with a hamstring injury, prompting veteran Jack Jones to step in.
Verbatim Quotes
- “He’s always shown us his talent since he’s been here and he’s been able to string together a couple healthy weeks,” — Kyle Shanahan, coach
- “You see live reps and that's really important for us as an offense,” — Justin Herbert
What’s Next
The 49ers travel to Las Vegas for their final preseason game, while the Chargers host the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium in the concluding preseason matchup. Both teams will use those contests to finalize roster decisions before the regular season begins.
