The San Francisco 49ers improved to 8-4 on Sunday with a 20-9 win over the Carolina Panthers, getting back-to-back wins for the first time since Week 3. It was a strong defensive performance from the 49ers, who forced two turnovers, kept Bryce Young in check, and allowed only two scores on nine drives.

In the second half, Purdy and Co. settled down, extending their lead with an 80-yard touchdown drive in the early stages of the third quarter. Christian McCaffrey was the one to find the end zone at that juncture, scoring from 12 yards out against his former team as he squared off against them for the first time since being traded in 2022.

Christian McCaffrey had high praises for the 49ers' locker room following their convincing win over the Panthers on Monday night.

Aiyuk is likely to depart the 49ers after having his injury guarantees waived, but for now, he's still a member of the 49ers. Shanahan is still defending his star receiver, deflecting some of the blame from Aiyuk for missing meetings with the team.