Tight end George Kittle sees great value in having a quarterback with experience in high-pressure situations as the 49ers begin their NFL playoff journey on Saturday night.
Any time you have the opportunity to participate in the playoffs, it can be extremely beneficial,” Kittle expressed during the 49ers’ bye week in the playoffs. “I can recall Joe Staley and Richard Sherman advising me during my initial playoff experience in 2019 that the intensity, atmosphere, and energy levels are distinct when compared to regular football.”
Despite the fact that Purdy has only been the 49ers’ starting quarterback for slightly over one complete season, his playoff experience in 2022 instills even greater confidence in Kittle and his teammates on the field. While Purdy may not be the most seasoned player in the San Francisco locker room, he has demonstrated his readiness to perform exceptionally well in the most important games.
Kittle expressed his confidence in Purdy’s consistent and focused performance, stating that he anticipates him to remain unchanged. Despite any occasional interceptions, Kittle remains unworried as he firmly believes in Purdy’s ability to bounce back and deliver his usual exceptional level of play.
Purdy had a stellar season in 2023, setting multiple records for the 49ers and leading the league in various passing categories. However, his playoff performance was even more remarkable until a devastating injury occurred in the NFC Championship Game. In his playoff debut, Purdy completed 18 of 30 passes for 332 yards and three touchdowns, adding a rushing touchdown in the 49ers’ 41-23 victory over the Seattle Seahawks in the wild-card round. The following week, he had a solid outing, going 19-of-29 for 214 yards in a 19-12 win against the Dallas Cowboys in the divisional round.
Playoff games bring an increased level of intensity and urgency, but Kittle is confident that his quarterback will be prepared both physically and mentally. He acknowledges that there is more emotion and pressure in these games, with a greater emphasis on each play, but he also emphasizes the importance of sticking to the fundamentals of the game and not resorting to unnecessary theatrics.
Therefore, when Levi’s Stadium becomes the battleground for the 49ers and the Green Bay Packers, Kittle anticipates that Purdy will remain composed, relaxed, and confident, just like always, prepared to embrace the attention.
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