The 49ers vs Eagles rivalry is one of the most storied and intense in NFL history, spanning decades and featuring some of the league’s most memorable games. With an all-time record of 21-15-1 in favor of the San Francisco 49ers, these two teams have consistently delivered high-stakes matchups that captivate fans across the nation. From playoff showdowns to regular-season thrillers, 49ers vs Eagles games are always must-watch events, filled with drama, excitement, and top-tier football.
History of the 49ers vs Eagles Rivalry
The 49ers vs Eagles rivalry began on October 1, 1950, when the San Francisco 49ers defeated the Philadelphia Eagles 24-14. Since then, the 49ers vs Eagles have faced off 37 times, with the 49ers holding a slight edge in the series. Although they are not in the same division, their frequent meetings—every few years due to NFL scheduling rotations—have allowed this rivalry to grow and flourish. Both teams have enjoyed periods of dominance in the NFL, making their 49ers vs Eagles encounters all the more significant. The 49ers, with five Super Bowl titles, and the Eagles, with one, have often been among the NFC’s elite, adding weight to every 49ers vs Eagles matchup.
Key Games in the 49ers vs Eagles Rivalry
The 49ers vs Eagles rivalry has produced several unforgettable games that have left lasting impressions on fans and players alike. One of the most notable was the 1996 NFC Wild Card game, where the 49ers vs Eagles clashed in a playoff setting for the first time. The 49ers dominated, shutting out the Eagles 14-0. Steve Young, the 49ers’ quarterback, led the charge with a rushing touchdown and a passing touchdown to Jerry Rice, while the 49ers’ defense held the Eagles scoreless. This game was particularly significant as it pitted the 49ers vs Eagles against Ray Rhodes, their former defensive coordinator who had become the Eagles’ head coach.
Fast forward to more recent history, and the 49ers vs Eagles rivalry reached new heights in the 2022 NFC Championship game. The 49ers vs Eagles traveled to Philadelphia, where they faced a dominant Eagles team led by Jalen Hurts. The result was a lopsided 31-7 victory for the Eagles, as they advanced to the Super Bowl. The 49ers were hampered by injuries, notably to quarterbacks Jimmy Garoppolo and Brock Purdy, which likely contributed to their defeat. However, the 49ers vs Eagles did not let this loss linger. In their next meeting during the 2023 regular season, the 49ers vs Eagles exacted revenge with a resounding 42-19 win on December 3, 2023. Brock Purdy threw four touchdown passes, including two to Deebo Samuel, who also scored a rushing touchdown. This game showcased the 49ers’ resilience and their ability to bounce back from adversity.
Another memorable 49ers vs Eagles matchup was in 2021, when the 49ers defeated the Eagles 17-11. Jimmy Garoppolo, then the 49ers’ quarterback, scored both touchdowns for his team—one rushing and one passing to Jauan Jennings. This game highlighted the 49ers vs Eagles’ ability to grind out tough wins, even in close contests. Conversely, in 2020, the 49ers vs Eagles fell to the Eagles 25-20, with a late pick-six sealing their fate. A notable play in that game was rookie Brandon Aiyuk’s 38-yard touchdown, where he hurdled a defender, showcasing the athleticism present in 49ers vs Eagles games. These back-and-forth results underscore the competitive nature of the 49ers vs Eagles rivalry, where neither team has a clear upper hand.
| Game | Date | Result | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1950 First Meeting | October 1, 1950 | 49ers 24, Eagles 14 | First 49ers vs Eagles game, setting the stage for the rivalry |
| 1996 NFC Wild Card | December 29, 1996 | 49ers 14, Eagles 0 | Steve Young’s rushing and passing TDs, 49ers’ shutout defense |
| 2020 Regular Season | October 4, 2020 | Eagles 25, 49ers 20 | Brandon Aiyuk’s 38-yard TD hurdle, late pick-six sealed Eagles’ win |
| 2021 Regular Season | September 19, 2021 | 49ers 17, Eagles 11 | Jimmy Garoppolo’s rushing and passing TDs, close defensive battle |
| 2022 NFC Championship | January 29, 2023 | Eagles 31, 49ers 7 | Eagles’ dominance, 49ers hampered by QB injuries |
| 2023 Regular Season | December 3, 2023 | 49ers 42, Eagles 19 | Brock Purdy’s 4 TD passes, Deebo Samuel’s 3 TDs, 49ers’ revenge for 2022 loss |
Player Matchups in the 49ers vs Eagles Rivalry
The 49ers vs Eagles rivalry has featured some of the NFL’s greatest players facing off against each other. In the early days, legendary quarterbacks like Joe Montana and Steve Young of the 49ers squared off against Ron Jaworski and Randall Cunningham of the Eagles. These 49ers vs Eagles matchups were often high-scoring affairs, with both teams boasting explosive offenses. Wide receivers Jerry Rice and Terrell Owens for the 49ers went head-to-head with Harold Carmichael and Mike Quick of the Eagles, creating highlight-reel plays that are still remembered today.
In recent years, the 49ers vs Eagles rivalry has seen new stars emerge. Jalen Hurts, the Eagles’ dynamic quarterback, has faced off against Jimmy Garoppolo and now Brock Purdy of the 49ers. In their most recent meeting in 2023, Purdy outshone Hurts, completing 19 of 27 passes for 314 yards and four touchdowns. Hurts, while throwing for 298 yards, struggled with two interceptions, highlighting the 49ers’ defensive prowess. On defense, Nick Bosa of the 49ers has been a dominant force, earning Defensive Player of the Year honors, while the Eagles’ defense, led by players like Haason Reddick, has consistently challenged the 49ers’ offense.
Running backs have also played a crucial role in the 49ers vs Eagles rivalry. Christian McCaffrey, acquired by the 49ers in 2022, has been a game-changer, providing versatility and big-play ability. In the 2023 game, McCaffrey rushed for a touchdown and contributed 133 yards from scrimmage. On the other side, Miles Sanders, a key contributor for the Eagles during earlier 49ers vs Eagles matchups, showcased his speed and elusiveness before moving to the Carolina Panthers.
Coaching Matchups in the 49ers vs Eagles Rivalry
The 49ers vs Eagles rivalry extends beyond players to include some of the NFL’s most respected coaches. Currently, Kyle Shanahan leads the 49ers, while Nick Sirianni coaches the Eagles. Shanahan has a record of 2-1 against Sirianni, with wins in the regular season in 2021 and 2023, and a loss in the 2022 NFC Championship game. Both coaches are known for their innovative strategies and ability to maximize their teams’ potential, adding another layer of intrigue to the 49ers vs Eagles rivalry. Shanahan’s offensive genius and Sirianni’s ability to build a cohesive team have made their head-to-head battles must-watch events.
Statistics of the 49ers vs Eagles Rivalry
In their 37 meetings, the 49ers vs Eagles hold a record of 21-15-1 against the Eagles. At home, the 49ers have a record of 12-5-1, while on the road, they are 9-10. In playoff games, the 49ers vs Eagles and Eagles have split their two meetings, with each team winning once. The largest margin of victory for the 49ers is 28 points, achieved in a 31-3 win on October 3, 1971, while the Eagles’ largest margin is 39 points, from a 42-3 win on September 18, 2005. These statistics highlight the competitiveness of the 49ers vs Eagles rivalry, with neither team dominating overwhelmingly.
| Statistic | Details |
|---|---|
| All-Time Record | 49ers lead 21-15-1 |
| Home Record (49ers) | 12-5-1 |
| Away Record (49ers) | 9-10 |
| Playoff Record | Tied 1-1 |
| Largest 49ers Win | 28 points (31-3, October 3, 1971) |
| Largest Eagles Win | 39 points (42-3, September 18, 2005) |
Fan Perspective and Cultural Impact of the 49ers vs Eagles Rivalry
The 49ers vs Eagles rivalry is not just about the players and coaches; it’s also about the fans. Both San Francisco and Philadelphia boast some of the most passionate fan bases in the NFL. When the 49ers vs Eagles take on each other, stadiums are filled with energy, and fans travel from across the country to support their teams. The games often feature creative chants, elaborate tailgating, and a sea of team colors, creating an electric atmosphere. Beyond the football field, the 49ers vs Eagles rivalry fosters friendly competition among fans, bringing communities together and creating lasting memories. Whether watching at home, at a sports bar, or in person, fans engage in good-natured trash talk, adding to the excitement of every 49ers vs Eagles matchup.
The cultural impact of the 49ers vs Eagles rivalry extends beyond the game itself. Both teams have large, dedicated followings, and their games are often nationally televised due to their popularity. The 49ers vs Eagles matchups are seen as clashes between two NFL powerhouses, with implications for playoff seeding and Super Bowl aspirations. This rivalry has become a cornerstone of NFL culture, with fans eagerly anticipating each encounter.
Future Outlook for the 49ers vs Eagles Rivalry
Although the 49ers vs Eagles do not have a game scheduled for the 2025 season, their rivalry will undoubtedly continue to thrive. Both teams are perennial contenders in the NFC, often battling for playoff spots and division titles. The 49ers vs Eagles next meeting will depend on the NFL’s scheduling rotation, but whenever they face off, it is guaranteed to be a high-stakes affair. With young stars like Brock Purdy and Jalen Hurts leading their respective teams, the future of the 49ers vs Eagles rivalry looks as bright as ever. Fans can look forward to more thrilling moments as these two teams continue to compete at the highest level.
Conclusion
The 49ers vs Eagles rivalry is a cornerstone of NFL history, defined by decades of competition, legendary players, and unforgettable games. With a balanced record and a history of thrilling matchups, the 49ers vs Eagles games are always highly anticipated. From Steve Young’s dominance in the 1990s to Brock Purdy’s recent heroics, the 49ers vs Eagles have consistently risen to the occasion against their rivals. As both teams continue to strive for Super Bowl glory, their rivalry will remain a highlight of the NFL calendar, delivering drama and excitement for years to come.
