Niner Noise
FanSided

San Francisco 49ers: Revisiting Patrick Willis’ greatness

By Logan Stanley

SAN FRANCISCO, CA - JANUARY 22: Patrick Willis #52 of the San Francisco 49ers reacts after he sacked Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants in the second half during the NFC Championship Game at Candlestick Park on January 22, 2012 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
SAN FRANCISCO, CA - JANUARY 22: Patrick Willis #52 of the San Francisco 49ers reacts after he sacked Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants in the second half during the NFC Championship Game at Candlestick Park on January 22, 2012 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /
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SAN FRANCISCO, CA – JANUARY 22: Victor Cruz #80 of the New York Giants fails to make a catch against Patrick Willis #52 of the San Francisco 49ers during the NFC Championship Game at Candlestick Park on January 22, 2012 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
SAN FRANCISCO, CA – JANUARY 22: Victor Cruz #80 of the New York Giants fails to make a catch against Patrick Willis #52 of the San Francisco 49ers during the NFC Championship Game at Candlestick Park on January 22, 2012 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /

A great hitter, but exceptional in pass coverage too

  • I think people tend to forget the effectiveness Willis displayed as a pass defender. His ability as a hitter most likely distracted those from his prowess in the secondary.