Analyst defends 49ers' Brock Purdy amid losing streak

Well-known NFL Network personality Brian Baldinger is the latest analyst to defend San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy amid the club's three-game losing streak. 

"You know, you're throwing these balls on timing," Baldinger explained during a Tuesday appearance on 95.7 The Game, per David Bonilla of 49ers WebZone. "Like the receivers have to win. They have to be where they're supposed to be. If you just wait for receivers to get open in this league, you're never going to be an elite offense. Sometimes, you have to live with the mistakes. But he's made elite throws, and he runs the offense."

All five of Purdy's interceptions occurred over the past three games, but CBS Sports NFL analyst Chris Trapasso and Hall of Famer Kurt Warner previously insisted Purdy is playing better than some critics have suggested. According to ESPN stats, Purdy heads into Week 10 ranked second in the league with a 74.9 adjusted QBR and a 105.4 passer rating. He tossed 12 touchdown passes over San Francisco's first eight contests. 

"I don't want him to eliminate the mistakes at the risk of not being aggressive," Baldinger said about Purdy. "You're not winning a championship [that way]."

Baldinger also mentioned how Kansas City Chiefs star Patrick Mahomes is "aggressive and lives with the mistakes" he makes during games. Mahomes is tied for the second-most interceptions (eight) in the league this season. 

"He's got amazing vision, and he's got escapability," Baldinger added. "I mean, he's got what it takes. Now look, these guys only get measured by winning Super Bowls and how you play in January, ultimately. But still, I mean, for a guy that has just crossed the threshold of starting a full season, I think they've got something special there at that position."

The 5-3 49ers play at the 6-2 Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday. As of Tuesday afternoon, oddschecker listed the Niners as three-point road favorites for that matchup.