5 stats that defined 49ers’ loss to Eagles in NFC Championship
By Peter Panacy
49ers glaring stat vs. Eagles: Penalties
OK, let’s get to the hot-button topic.
Right away, it’s not hard to see the discrepancy between San Francisco and Philadelphia in the accepted-penalty department:
- 49ers: 11 penalties for 81 yards
- Eagles: 4 penalties for 34 yards
Sure, the counter-argument (and somewhat rightfully so) is the Niners were less disciplined than their Philly opponents, yet it’s hard to jive that with some of the notable and reputable reactions from those watching the game:
Just dont know about some of these calls. Maybe in the Reg season but the playoffs they let them play. Ticky tack illegal contact.
— Richard Sherman (@RSherman_25) January 29, 2023
I don't often criticize officiating, but this is ridiculous. This "all-star crew" is trying to prove how good they are.
— Matt Maiocco (@MaioccoNBCS) January 29, 2023
Related Story: Twitter reacts to officials screwing 49ers in NFC Championship game
Yes, some of the calls that went against San Francisco were wholly justified.
However, plenty of others weren’t. That “roughing” the kicker call? Well, it’d be hard for running back Jordan Mason to avoid contact when he was pushed from behind by a Philadelphia special teamer.
Same with defensive back Jimmie Ward being flagged for pass interference on a call within 5 yards from the line of scrimmage.
Even worse, many of those calls led to momentum for the Eagles.