Jordan Mason gained seven and 22 yards after eluding multiple tackles, following Deebo's 28-yard gain. A skillfully executed screen pass to George Kittle allowed the Niners to score and cut the deficit to three.
However, the Vikings still had time before the half ended and would receive the ball at the start of the second half. Nick Bosa recorded his first sack of the season, but Jefferson managed to gain 16 yards on 3rd & 13, keeping Minnesota on the field. Darnold converted another third down with a scramble, putting the Vikings in a good position for a field goal.
That put the score at 13-7. To start the second half, both teams fumbled their plays and ended up punting. Darnold began to falter. He was holding onto the ball, looking dangerously close to making a poor choice. Bosa secured his second sack of the game early in the third quarter.
It was Purdy who committed the first glaring error. He locked onto his receiver, allowing multiple Vikings defenders to tip the pass before it was intercepted.
On the following drive, Kevin O’Connell called the perfect play where his wide receiver pretended to block, and the 49ers bought it. Jailen Nailor’s wide-open touchdown extended the Vikings' lead to 20-7.
Sadly, that wasn't Purdy's last turnover of the game. The ball inexplicably slipped from his grasp, giving the Vikings another short field.
As Aaron Jones raced towards the end zone, Warner made his third phenomenal play of the game. With his heels on the goal line, Warner punched the ball loose, preventing a touchdown and preserving the game.