While the positions in the NFC West remain very tight, unfortunately for the San Francisco 49ers, they know they missed a great opportunity against a divisional rival like the Los Angeles Rams. A key play could have changed the outcome of the game, and it was Deebo Samuel himself who spoke out about it.
After another loss, Kyle Shanahan’s team now holds a record of six wins and eight losses, placing them at the bottom of their division. With just three games remaining, the 49ers’ chances of making the playoffs are quickly dwindling. The pressure is mounting, and every game counts as they aim for a Wild Card spot in the upcoming NFL playoffs.
The play that could have changed the course of the game for the 49ers featured Deebo Samuel and a ball he couldn’t catch, which could have ended in a touchdown. Midway through the third quarter, Brock Purdy couldn’t have placed the ball in a better position for Samuel, who tried to catch it, but it slipped through his hands. A disappointing play that could have changed the course of the game, and for which the WR was booed by the crowd.
Once the game ended, several of Samuel’s teammates came to his defense after the unfortunate play, including George Kittle. Regarding this, the WR stated: “George is George,” Samuel said. He added, “He said, ‘I’ve seen you make that play a million times. Don’t let it eat you up.’ But I feel like [if] I make that play, we win the game.” Deebo Samuel made it clear that he took responsibility for the loss against the Rams.
Naturally, the one who couldn’t escape the spotlight was none other than head coach Kyle Shanahan. When asked by the press about the specific play involving Samuel, he was very clear in his response. “Yeah, that was a big one. Third down and with Deebo’s skill set, I would have been shocked if he didn’t score on that play,” Shanahan said. “Everyone knows the answer to that, Deebo too. He needs to catch that ball.”
Teammates rallied around Samuel after the game, emphasizing the importance of moving forward. “There’s things that you just have to take on the chin,” Kittle said. He went on to encourage Samuel to move forward, saying, “Take ownership of it, leave it in the past and move on. Because there are better days ahead for Deebo. There are plays to be made for Deebo, and he has more opportunities ahead of him to make plays for this team.”
Brock Purdy also expressed his support for Samuel, stating, “I love Deebo, and I go into every game wanting the best for all my teammates on the field. I feel his frustration. I know he’s a playmaker, and if I were him, I’d for sure want to be getting more touches and making plays.” It’s clear that the camaraderie within the team remains strong, even in the face of adversity.
As the 49ers look ahead, they face a challenging final stretch that will determine their playoff fate. With the sole goal of securing a Wild Card spot, the San Francisco 49ers have three tough games ahead, which will be crucial for their postseason aspirations.
- vs Miami Dolphins, December 22nd
- vs Detroit Lions, December 30th
- vs Arizona Cardinals, January 5th
The upcoming matchups will test the 49ers’ resolve and ability to bounce back from their recent setbacks. The team has shown flashes of brilliance throughout the season, but consistency has eluded them. With the playoffs on the line, every player must step up and deliver when it matters most.
The NFC West is known for its competitiveness, and the 49ers are well aware that they cannot afford any more slip-ups. The pressure is palpable, and the stakes are higher than ever. Fans are eagerly awaiting to see if the team can rally together and make a final push for the postseason.
In the world of NFL football, the ability to overcome adversity is often what separates the good teams from the great ones. Can the 49ers rise to the occasion and prove their doubters wrong? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the passion and determination within this team are palpable.
As they gear up for their next game, the 49ers must remember the lessons learned from their recent loss. Every play counts, and the margin for error is razor-thin. With Deebo Samuel and his teammates rallying together, the hope remains that they can turn things around and make a playoff run. The road ahead may be tough, but the spirit of competition is alive and well in San Francisco. The fans will be watching closely, cheering on their team as they strive for greatness.
