Super Bowl 54: 5 49ers matchups vs. Chiefs no one is talking about

No. 4: Deebo Samuel vs. Chiefs Cornerbacks

In a pair of playoff games where the passing game took a backseat to the dominance of the San Francisco 49ers’ running scheme, it’s a testament to how special a talent rookie wide receiver Deebo Samuel is that he can still make such a powerful impact.

In the playoffs, he’s had five receptions for 88 yards and three carries for 49 yards. It isn’t a huge impact on the surface, but considering both the lack of reception opportunities, as well as quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo‘s affinity for spreading the ball around, it’s been a big impact.

Especially considering his blocking ability, which is a natural extension of his physical style of play as a receiver.

I recently made a big call for the Super Bowl, predicting that Samuel will be the big game’s MVP. It seems almost certain that with a normal passing game, Samuel will be looking at a huge performance.

Samuel has looked totally ready for the limelight of the playoffs. Whether it’s catching the few passes thrown at him, operating as a weapon in the rushing game with those attractive reverses, or functinoing as a gritty blocker, Samuel has all the weapons needed.

Samuel will need to fight hard in the Super Bowl to get open, but as a player who has gotten better as the season has progressed, he should be able to make key plays throughout the day and help the offense.

And who knows, maybe even become the Super Bowl MVP.