49ers biggest studs, duds from NFL playoff win vs. Packers

49ers Stud: Special teams

The much-maligned and criticized Niners special teams unit kept the game close, scored the game-tying touchdown, and kicked the game-winning field goal.

San Francisco’s defense might have won this game, but the special teams put up all the points.

Safety Jimmie Ward had himself a game in Green Bay. At the end of the first half, he blocked Packers kicker Mason Crosby’s 39-yard field goal attempt. Moments earlier, blown coverage resulted in a 75-yard gain for the Packers. The defense saved the touchdown by forcing a field goal.

Ward blocking that attempt didn’t just save three points, he negated those 75 yards.

https://twitter.com/49ers/status/1485105921139351558?s=21

Blocking punts and field goals is no easy task, but doing both in one game is rare. Late in the fourth quarter, the defense forced yet another punt. As soon as the ball was snapped, EDGE Jordan Willis proved that he was the fastest man on the field. Willis blocked it, and safety Talanoa Hufanga scooped it up tying the game 10-10.

Robbie Gould came into the game a perfect 19-19 in postseason field goals. With the game on the line, he split the uprights on a 42-yard attempt in horrible weather conditions. Fortunately for the 49ers, his long tenure in Chicago with the Bears made him the most capable player in the league to make that kick.

The special teams not only came up big, but they also gave this team an opportunity to play for the NFC Championship next week against the Rams.