Biggest studs, duds from 49ers Week 17 win over Texans

49ers Stud: Wide Receiver Brandon Aiyuk

Yes, he was called for a holding penalty that wiped out what could have been a Trey Lance rushing touchdown. But aside from that gaffe, and a non-consequential bobbled punt he was able to recover, wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk was a massive X-factor for San Francisco’s offense.

During the game, the CBS broadcast pointed out how Aiyuk sticks around with Lance after practices to work on timing and routes, and that relationship was on full display during the game.

The Texans tried hard to negate George Kittle and Deebo Samuel, which meant Aiyuk was going to be the primary beneficiary of Lance’s targets, particularly on some challenging third-down attempts where the second-year wide receiver came up big.

Aiyuk finished up Week 17 with a team-leading four receptions for 94 yards, getting a good portion of those on a 43-yard catch-and-run reception in the second half.

As long as Aiyuk remains a key target for Lance moving forward and in the years to come, the 49ers offense could be truly difficult to stop.