The San Francisco 49ers face the Arizona Cardinals today in a crucial Week 11 matchup, with all eyes on the quarterback situation. Brock Purdy is expected to start over Mac Jones, despite Jones’ recent reps in practice, as Purdy has declared he feels “really good” after recovering from injury.

However, the 49ers’ injury concerns extend beyond the QB position. A key starter suffered a calf injury in practice, adding to the team’s growing list of health challenges. With eight players on the injury report, including Christian McCaffrey, San Francisco’s depth will be tested against the Cardinals.

Head coach Kyle Shanahan revealed how Jones reacted to Purdy getting the nod, adding another layer of intrigue to this divisional clash. The 49ers’ roster moves, including Ferrell being ruled out and Lenoir active, will also impact today’s game plan.

49ers Game Today: Will Brock Purdy Start Over Mac Jones vs Cardinals & Latest Injury Updates

Is Brock Purdy finally starting again after toe injury?

The San Francisco 49ers have confirmed that quarterback Brock Purdy will return to the starting lineup for Week 11 against the Arizona Cardinals. Purdy has been sidelined since Week 4 with a toe injury, with backup Mac Jones filling in during his absence. Coach Kyle Shanahan made the announcement on Thursday, emphasizing that Purdy has shown full recovery in practice.

While Jones performed adequately, the 49ers offense has clearly missed Purdy’s dynamic playmaking ability. His return comes at a crucial time as the team fights for playoff positioning. The Cardinals’ defense ranks 24th against the pass this season, presenting a favorable matchup for Purdy’s comeback.

Mac Jones’ reaction to benching

Sources indicate Jones took the demotion professionally, though he reportedly requested additional reps with the second-team offense. The former Patriots quarterback went 2-3 as a starter during Purdy’s absence, showing flashes of competence but struggling with deep-ball accuracy.

Who got injured in 49ers practice this week?

Defensive end Clelin Ferrell suffered a calf strain during Wednesday’s practice and has been ruled out for Sunday’s game. The veteran pass rusher had started all 10 games this season, recording 3.5 sacks. His absence creates opportunities for Drake Jackson and rookie Robert Beal Jr.

Additionally, cornerback Deommodore Lenoir is listed as questionable with a shoulder issue but is expected to play through the pain. The 49ers secondary can’t afford another absence after losing Talanoa Hufanga for the season.

How will 49ers offense change with Purdy back?

The offensive scheme should return to its pre-injury form, with these key adjustments expected:

• More play-action passes (Purdy’s 72.3% completion rate leads NFL)
• Increased downfield targets to Deebo Samuel
• Designed rollouts to protect Purdy’s toe while maintaining mobility

What time is the 49ers vs Cardinals game today?

The NFC West showdown kicks off at 1:25 PM PST at State Farm Stadium. Weather shouldn’t be a factor with the retractable roof likely closed (indoor temperature 72°F forecasted). Broadcast channels include:

Can Brock Purdy stay healthy for the playoff push?

The 49ers are implementing several precautions to protect their QB1:

• Modified practice schedule (limited Wednesday reps)
• Additional padding in cleats for toe protection
• More two-TE sets for extra pass blocking

Who’s calling plays for Cardinals defense?

Arizona defensive coordinator Nick Rallis has dialed up aggressive blitz packages all season (42 sacks through 10 games). His unique pressure schemes feature:

• Safety blitzes from disguised alignments
• Stunt combinations targeting inexperienced guards
• Coverage rotations to bracket George Kittle