49ers stock report heading into final 2017 contest versus the Rams
By Peter Panacy
Quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo
Well, it’s hard to find the words to describe what quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo has done for the franchise.
He’s been everything, for sure. We know this. And it would be smart for San Francisco to simply hand him a blank check immediately to get him locked up for the long run.
Garoppolo went 21-of-30 for 242 yards and three touchdowns, including one rushing, against one interception against a Jaguars defense that, even after losing to the Niners, still ranks No. 1 against the pass with just 2,602 passing yards allowed.
And one of those connections — a five-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Trent Taylor — showcased the pocket mobility and improvisation coaching staffs covet at the highest level:
It’s best not to overthink this. Before Garoppolo, the Niners were 1-10. Since he’s started, the team is undefeated, knocking off two playoff-caliber teams in the process.
He will have the opportunity to hinder the Rams’ playoff seeding a bit in Week 17, when these two teams square off in the regular-season finale. And if the hot hand continues, the 49ers will be entering an offseason of pure bliss.
Even if the record, at best, is 6-10.
Next: Jaguars vs. 49ers: Full Week 16 grades for San Francisco