49ers’ Eddy Piñeiro Shatters Field Goal Record with Dramatic 59Yard Kick Against Rams
In a thrilling showdown that kept fans on the edge of their seats, the San Francisco 49ers secured a 59yard field goal victory against the Los Angeles Rams. With just under three minutes left in the game and the score tied, the 49ers faced a crucial fourthdown decision that would ultimately determine the outcome of the game.
Kyle Shanahan’s Bold Decision: Going for the Kick
In previous matches, the 49ers’ field goal attempts, especially those within 40 yards, had raised concern among fans due to inconsistencies. This particular game was no exception, especially considering that previous kick attempts had come from Eddy Piñeiro, the kicker recently signed by the team. Head Coach Kyle Shanahan had his reservations, as he explained, “It was close. We debated it for a little bit but said screw it, let’s see what he’s got.”
Eddy Piñeiro Delivers Under Pressure
When the pivotal moment arrived, Piñeiro’s kick appeared that it might veer off course. However, he defied expectations as the ball sailed through the uprights, granting the 49ers a critical threepoint lead. “He just showed us he probably could have done it from the [49ers’] 45 [yard line],” Shanahan remarked, highlighting Piñeiro’s impressive performance.
- Piñeiro successfully converted all four of his field goal attempts during the game.
- This performance marks a remarkable turnaround for the 49ers’ kicking game after a rocky start in the previous season.
- In his four games with the 49ers, Piñeiro has missed only one kick, which occurred during his debut extra point attempt against the New Orleans Saints.
A New Era for the 49ers’ Kicking Game
The decision to switch from former kicker Jake Moody, who struggled throughout the earlier season, to Piñeiro has already demonstrated its benefits. Following the 49ers’ Week 1 win against the Seattle Seahawks, the team made the strategic move after Moody’s inconsistent performance, marked by a failed 27yard attempt and a longest successful field goal of only 32 yards.
The impact of this change is noticeable. Fans may still experience jitters when Piñeiro steps onto the field, a remnant of past performances, but his previous experience with the Carolina Panthers suggests that he may have simply needed a fresh start. The 49ers have made a crucial decision in their kicking strategy that could lead to a successful season ahead.
Following the game, Piñeiro took his time rejoining the locker room, as Shanahan humorously noted, “It took him 20 minutes to get in there. He was 44, so it’s all good.” The confidence growing in Piñeiro reflects not only in his performance but also in the morale of the entire 49ers team as they aim for greater success this season.