League: NFL Sport: Football Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Cowing's punt return sparks 49ers to 41-18 preseason win over Chargers

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 21, 2026, 5:17 AM

Last updated Aug 21, 2026

Cowing's punt return sparks 49ers to 41-18 preseason win over Chargers

Summary

The San Francisco 49ers secured a 41-18 preseason victory against the Los Angeles Chargers on Thursday night. Jacob Cowing returned a punt for an 83-yard touchdown, helping the team to a 20-3 halftime lead. Quarterback Brock Purdy made his preseason debut, completing 4 of 6 passes for 29 yards. The Chargers struggled throughout, managing only eight first downs and scoring late in the game. Upcoming, the 49ers will face the Las Vegas Raiders next Thursday, while the Chargers will host the Rams.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Cowing's 83-yard touchdown return gave the 49ers a 17-3 lead.
•Purdy and Mac Jones both saw time at quarterback for San Francisco.
•Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert played one series in his preseason debut.
•The Chargers scored late on a 28-yard touchdown catch by Jerand Bradley.
•San Francisco's next game is against the Las Vegas Raiders.

Latest Updates

5:17 AMYahoo Sports — Cowing returns punt for TD to spark the 49ers in 41-18 preseason win over the Chargers

What they're saying

"
Jacob Cowing returned a punt for an 83-yard touchdown, Eddy Pineiro kicked a pair of field goals and the San Francisco 49ers beat the Los Angeles Chargers 41-18 on Thursday night in a preseason game. 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy saw his first preseason action, going 4 of 6 for 29 yards in the first quarter. Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert played the opening series in his first appearance of the preseason.
— Yahoo Sportsby BETH HARRIS

Related Teams & Leagues

Los Angeles Chargers San Francisco 49ers NFL Football