Despite three interceptions by Brock Purdy, the San Francisco 49ers ultimately won the game against the Carolina Panthers with ease.

The San Francisco 49ers have further improved their playoff chances in the NFL with a shaky victory.

The Californians prevailed 20-9 against the Carolina Panthers in Monday Night Football and now have a record of 8-4.

The Panthers are just behind the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who are 7-6, in the NFC South with a record of 6-6, thus missing out on taking a big step toward the playoffs.

San Francisco 49ers: Purdy gets off to a shaky start

49ers quarterback Brock Purdy threw three interceptions, but still managed to gain 193 yards and throw a touchdown pass to Jauan Jennings. The best receiver was tight end George Kittle with 78 yards. Running back Christian McCaffrey scored another touchdown and was also a factor for the hosts as a pass receiver, gaining 89 rushing yards and 53 receiving yards on seven catches.

“It was a great win,” McCaffrey said. “But I know we’re striving for more and that we can be better.”

Carolina Panthers unable to capitalize on 49ers mistakes

Bryce Young was only marginally less error-prone than Purdy. After his best career game against the Atlanta Falcons, he managed only 169 yards this time, along with a touchdown to rookie Tet McMillan and two interceptions.

Above all, the lack of a running game repeatedly put the Panthers in bad situations. Rico Dowdle (six carries, 38 yards) and Chuba Hubbard (three, 16) were hardly in demand despite good averages. Dowdle was also the Panthers’ best receiver with 36 yards.

Despite eight wins, the 49ers are only third in the NFC West. Next week, head coach Kyle Shanahan’s team travels to the Arizona Cardinals, while the Panthers face the NFC West leaders, the Los Angeles Rams.