Anthony Rizzuti, Panthers WireTue, November 25, 2025 at 4:04 AM UTC·1 min readNot only did the Carolina Panthers have a chance to hop into sole possession of first place in the NFC South, but they could've done it on a national stage. But it was not to be on this Monday night.
Here's everything we know from their disappointing loss to the San Francisco 49ers . . .
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementFinal score
49ers 20, Panthers 9
Keys to the game
The Panthers defense picked off quarterback Brock Purdy three times on the 49ers' first three drives. But the offense failed to take advantage, scoring just three points off the takeaways.
Carolina's offense remained flat throughout the contest, amassing just 230 total yards. Head coach Dave Canales stayed away from the run, calling up just nine rushing attempts combined between Rico Dowdle and Chuba Hubbard.
Former Panthers running back Christian McCaffrey got his get-back, pacing the 49ers offense with 24 carries for 89 yards and a touchdown. He also reeled in seven catches for 53 yards.
It was over when . . .
Down 20-9 with 4:44 left in the game, the Panthers set up shop at their own 34-yard line. They proceeded to piece together a six-play, 27-yard drive, setting up a fourth-and-8 with just over three minutes remaining.
Carolina opted for a 57-yard field goal attempt, which would be missed by kicker Ryan Fitzgerald. San Francisco then took over and drained out the game clock.
Players of the game
CB Jaycee Horn: two interceptions
S Tre'von Moehrig: eight tackles (one for a loss)
P Sam Martin: four punts, 201 yards (50.3 yards per attempt)
What's next?
The Panthers (6-6) will head home to host the NFC-leading Los Angeles Rams (9-2) in Week 13.
Follow @ThePanthersWire on Twitter/X for more Panthers content.
This article originally appeared on Panthers Wire: Panthers vs. 49ers game recap: Everything we know from Week 12
AdvertisementAdvertisement