SF 49ers winners, losers from shocking win over Cardinals

Winner: SF 49ers Tight End George Kittle

The Niners have been without All-Pro tight end George Kittle since Week 8, as he was dealing with a broken bone in his foot. After being cleared and reactivated, San Francisco didn’t have to play him in favor of Kittle resting fully and getting ready for 2021.

But Kittle wanted to play. And could Kyle Shanahan say no? Of course not.

Kittle made a difference in the game, sure, leading all SF 49ers pass-catchers with 92 yards on four receptions and being the prime attention-getting target. Yet his relentless blocking skills also opened up the offense so Jeff Wilson could have the kind of career-type day he enjoyed.

If anything, Kittle’s all-around abilities were sorely missed in recent weeks. No one else on San Francisco’s roster at his position has the same kind of blocking prowess as Kittle.

Plus, it’s always fun to see him on the field anyway.