49ers Reach 4–0 After Defense and Special Teams Spark Win Over Broncos

Game date: October 4, 2026 · Published October 9, 2026

San Francisco defeated Denver 24–14 on October 4, completing a three-game home stretch and improving to 4–0. The teams were tied 3–3 at halftime before the 49ers scored three second-half touchdowns.

A key third-quarter sequence came on special teams. Siran Neal forced a fumble from Denver returner Marvin Mims Jr. and recovered it at the Broncos’ 28-yard line. San Francisco converted the resulting possession into a touchdown.

Brock Purdy finished with 218 passing yards and two touchdowns. George Kittle’s late 56-yard touchdown reception extended the advantage after Denver had cut the gap. The 49ers’ offensive line also completed a fourth consecutive game without allowing Purdy to be sacked.

HuddleUp analysis

This win demonstrates why the quarterback’s final line should be read alongside field position and protection. The special-teams takeaway shortened the field, while pass protection helped preserve the offense’s options. Those contributions can shape a game before a scoring play reaches a highlight reel.

An unbeaten opening month is a strong start, rather than a postseason verdict. San Francisco’s next challenge is to carry the same complementary execution beyond its home stretch. For fans, the useful takeaway is how several units contributed to the second-half separation.

Reporting basis: Official game report. This article combines sourced reporting with HuddleUp editorial analysis; it is not an on-site account.