49ers vs. Vikings: 4 plays that broke Minnesota’s back in Week 12

No. 2: 49ers WR Deebo Samuel churns out a 49-yard run

The clear hope is wide receiver Deebo Samuel‘s groin injury is a minor one, as he’s easily been the Niners’ best player this season.

And he surely was one of San Francisco’s best players in Week 12, too.

True, Week 12 marked the second game in a row Samuel had only one catch. But when you factor in his six rushing attempts for 66 yards, it’s hard to call the third-year pro anything but a highly effective multipurpose weapon.

The 49ers had already tied things up heading into halftime. And after receiving the second-half kickoff, Kyle Shanahan had the chance to lap Minnesota and take the lead, which he did. Thanks to Samuel on multiple occasions, especially this 49-yard end-around run at the 13:41 mark of the third quarter:

Three plays later, Samuel rushed into the end zone for what was his second rushing touchdown of the game, giving the Niners their first lead of the game from which they’d never look back.

It’s that kind of play indicative of the kind of usage Samuel has showcased this season, easily making him San Francisco’s MVP in 2021.