49ers Score on Trick Play in Week 3 Matchup Against Cardinals
Deebo Samuel capitalized on a lateral from Mike Evans for an 80-yard touchdown.
The San Francisco 49ers offense demonstrated its veteran capabilities on their opening drive against the Arizona Cardinals, culminating in an 80-yard touchdown via a trick play. Quarterback Brock Purdy completed a short pass to wide receiver Mike Evans, who then executed a lateral to Deebo Samuel. Samuel advanced the ball the remaining distance for a touchdown, giving the 49ers an early 7-0 lead.
This play resulted in Samuel being credited with a touchdown and 80 receiving yards, while Evans recorded one catch for two yards. The 49ers entered the game facing a significant number of injuries, including the absence of defensive linemen Nick Bosa, Romello Height, and James Thompson Jr., as well as wide receiver Demarcus Robinson. Mike Evans was also dealing with a hip injury prior to the contest but was active for the game.
San Francisco had started the season with two previous wins, defeating the Los Angeles Rams in Australia and the Miami Dolphins in their prior home game. The Cardinals, who had surprised many by defeating the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 1, suffered a significant loss to the Seattle Seahawks in Week 2. Sunday's game was a key NFC West matchup, with a victory offering a valuable divisional win for either team.