The San Francisco 49ers will travel to face the Cleveland Browns on Sunday, where rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders aims for his second straight win. The 8-4 49ers prepare for inclement weather, while the 3-8 Browns look to build on their recent victory. Key matchups include containing Browns running back Quinshon Judkins and handling defensive star Myles Garrett.
In Berea, Ohio, the Cleveland Browns host the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday, spotlighting a matchup between coaches with personal ties. Kyle Shanahan, whose father Mike coordinated the 49ers' 1994 Super Bowl offense, grew up idolizing Deion Sanders. Now, Shanahan must scheme against Sanders' son, Shedeur, making his second NFL start for the Browns.
Shedeur Sanders led Cleveland to a 24-10 win over the Raiders last week, snapping a three-game skid. He completed 11 of 20 passes for 209 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. A victory would make him the first Browns rookie QB unbeaten in his first two starts since 1995. Sanders impressed with his scrambling, including a 52-yard completion to Isaiah Bond that set up a touchdown.
The Browns (3-8) rely heavily on rookie running back Quinshon Judkins, who leads NFL rookies with 667 rushing yards and seven touchdowns. 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh emphasized the need for sound, fundamental football to counter Judkins and any offensive wrinkles from Cleveland.
Meanwhile, the 49ers (8-4) boast a potent offense led by Christian McCaffrey, who tops the league with 217 carries and 1,581 yards from scrimmage. He's one of only three players ever with at least 750 yards rushing and receiving through 12 games. San Francisco ranks last in sacks with 13 but has intercepted four passes in their last two games, which could test Sanders, who has two picks in six quarters.
Cleveland's Myles Garrett dominates with 18 sacks and 26 tackles for loss, needing two more for 20 this season. Shanahan praised Garrett's generational get-off and consistency. Weather forecasts predict snow or rain, prompting the 49ers to review last year's snowy Cleveland game. Quarterback Brock Purdy, who struggled in wet conditions before (12 of 27 completions), stressed ball security without a glove.
Shanahan noted the personal angle but focused on preparation: "I’d be surprised if it’s not that way. You expect it to be that way, so you get your mind right."