The 2024 NFL season has been one to forget for the San Francisco 49ers, but quarterback Brock Purdy has still managed to carve out a historic achievement amidst an otherwise tumultuous campaign.

San Francisco’s 40-34 loss to the Detroit Lions on Monday night served as a microcosm of the team’s struggles this year. Purdy began the game on fire, showcasing the kind of elite play that made him a standout in his rookie season. However, his performance faltered in the second half with two costly interceptions, a recurring theme in a season that has seen its fair share of ups and downs.

Despite the team’s inconsistencies and his own second-half stumbles, Purdy’s performance was not without its bright spots. He threw for three touchdowns and posted a passer rating of 116.0, cementing his place in NFL history. With this game, Purdy set a record for the most games with two or more passing touchdowns and a passer rating of at least 115.0 in a quarterback’s first three seasons. His 15 such games now surpass Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who achieved the feat 14 times in the same span.

“It’s a great honor,” Purdy said after the game. “To even be mentioned in the same breath as someone like Patrick Mahomes is surreal. But at the end of the day, it’s about winning games, and I’ve got to be better in those critical moments to help our team come out on top.”

Purdy’s historic milestone underscores his potential as a franchise cornerstone for the 49ers. However, his record-breaking achievements are bittersweet, as they come during a season where San Francisco has struggled to maintain the high standards set in previous years. Injuries to key players, inconsistent defensive play, and tough competition in a loaded NFC have contributed to the team’s disappointing record.

Coach Kyle Shanahan praised Purdy’s resilience and ability to deliver under pressure but acknowledged the need for collective improvement. “Brock’s been incredible for us. What he’s accomplished in such a short time is nothing short of remarkable,” Shanahan said. “But football is a team game, and we’ve got to find a way to close out games like this.”

The loss to the Lions marked the 49ers’ fifth defeat of the season, dropping them further behind in the NFC playoff race. San Francisco’s offensive struggles in the second half have been a recurring issue, often undoing strong starts led by Purdy. While his ability to put up impressive numbers is undeniable, turning those stats into wins remains the ultimate goal for both the quarterback and the franchise.

As the 49ers look ahead to the final stretch of the season, Purdy’s record-breaking night offers a glimmer of hope and a reminder of his immense potential. For a team and a fanbase eager for a return to championship contention, the young quarterback’s historic achievement may be a stepping stone toward brighter days ahead.

Only time will tell if Purdy’s name will be etched among the greats in NFL history. For now, his record-breaking performances serve as a silver lining in an otherwise forgettable season for the 49ers.