49ers vs. Seahawks: Winners, losers from Week 17 NFC West clincher

Winner: Quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo

Is there anyone left wondering whether or not quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo can put the team on his shoulders when it’s needed? Anyone left doubting his ability to be a franchise-caliber signal-caller?

Garoppolo was held out of the end zone on Sunday night, sure. But one can’t overlook his 18-of-22 mark for 285 yards with a passer rating of 118.8. During the second half, when the 49ers defense was appearing more and more permeable, Garoppolo’s poise didn’t waiver.

Clutch, one might easily think. That was a playoff-caliber appearance.

But there’s far more to it than just the game, rather it’s impact on Jimmy G’s season-long efforts. By tossing 285 yards in Week 17, Garoppolo finished the regular season with 3,978 pass yards, which puts him into the franchise’s record books:

1. Jeff Garcia — 4,278 yards (2000)
2. Steve Young — 4,170 yards (1998)
3. Steve Young — 4,023 yards (1993)
4. Jimmy Garoppolo — 3,978 yards (2019)

It would have been great to see Garoppolo crest 4,000 yards in a season. But getting himself into No. 4 on the franchise’s all-time list for single-season pass yards is pretty cool, regardless.

Again, where are the critics thinking he was merely a game manager? Anyone?