The Cleveland Browns faced a significant setback on November 30, 2025, losing to the San Francisco 49ers by a decisive score of 26-8 at Huntington Bank Field. This defeat brought the Browns’ record to 3-9, confirming that they will finish the season with a losing record for the 23rd time since their return as an expansion team in 1999.
Under head coach Kevin Stefanski, this marks the fourth occasion in six years that the team has ended with a sub-.500 record. Cleveland’s struggles have become a hallmark of their season, as repeated mistakes have led to familiar outcomes, irrespective of the changing roster of players and coaches. The Browns entered the game with renewed hope after a previous victory over the Raiders, but their performance against the 49ers revealed persistent flaws.
In the match, the Browns had nine offensive possessions but could only muster one touchdown. The highlight for Cleveland came late in the second quarter when quarterback Shedeur Sanders connected with Harold Fannin on a 34-yard pass for a touchdown. Following a successful two-point conversion run by Quinshon Judkins, the Browns briefly led 8-7 with just 39 seconds remaining in the first half. However, the momentum quickly shifted back to San Francisco.
The 49ers capitalized on critical mistakes made by the Browns, particularly in the second half. Cleveland’s best drive resulted in reaching the 49ers’ 28-yard line, but they failed to convert three times on fourth down. The most damaging error occurred in the third quarter when Fannin, lining up at quarterback, fumbled the snap from center Ethan Pocic on a fourth-and-1 play. At the time, the Browns were trailing by only two points, 10-8.
Stefanski acknowledged the failure, stating, “It was fourth and inches. Quarterback sneak, the most effective play in that situation, we did not execute. That’s on me. We’ll get it fixed.” Right guard Wyatt Teller added that the team had practiced the play extensively, highlighting the frustration of execution lapses in critical moments.
Special teams issues further compounded Cleveland’s woes. Just weeks after allowing the Jets to score on two special teams touchdowns, the Browns struggled again against the 49ers. San Francisco’s first touchdown was set up by a 66-yard punt return by Skyy Moore. Rookie Gage Larvadain mishandled several punts throughout the game, culminating in a fumble early in the fourth quarter that resulted in a touchdown pass from Brock Purdy to Jauan Jennings, extending the 49ers’ lead to 23-8.
Reflecting on his performance, Larvadain stated, “I have to catch that ball. I have to catch it.” His comments underscored the challenge of relying on young players in high-pressure situations, especially in adverse weather conditions. Stefanski noted that “young guys make young mistakes,” acknowledging the learning curve faced by his team.
The 49ers improved their record to 9-4 with this victory, further exposing the systemic issues that have plagued the Browns for nearly three decades. Cleveland’s inability to capitalize on opportunities and their recurring mistakes have become a familiar narrative, leaving fans and analysts questioning when the team will finally break the cycle of disappointment.
As the Browns prepare for the remainder of the season, the focus will be on addressing these persistent issues, seeking to build a more competitive team for the future.
