Much of the optimism about the 49ers despite third-string quarterback Brock Purdy, a rookie selected with the final pick in the draft, exists because of his supporting cast on offense and the 49ers’ terrific defense.
The stats anointing San Francisco’s defense as the NFL’s best are plentiful, and the fact they’re holding opponents to just 15.8 points per game will be helpful in limiting the onus on Purdy to make plays in his first NFL start.
