On one hand, it's been unfortunate San Francisco 49ers second-year wide receiver Ricky Pearsall has been in and out of the lineup in what was supposed to be his true breakout season.
On the other, it's an awfully good thing Pearsall has strung together back-to-back impressive outings when he's been available.
Interrupted by a one-game absence in Week 16, Pearsall was on fire during the Niners' one-sided win over the lowly Tennessee Titans the week prior, notching 96 yards on six catches before aggravating a knee injury. And then, more importantly, his five-catch, 85-yard performance against the Chicago Bears on Sunday Night Football in Week 17 not only aided San Francisco's thrilling 42-38 victory but also set the stage nicely for what'll be an epic regular-season finale against the Seattle Seahawks in Week 18.
You know, the NFC West showdown that'll not only determine the division's winner but also the No. 1 seed in the playoffs?
Yeah, it's pretty important.
49ers need Ricky Pearsall to stay hot when they host Seahawks
The 49ers are anticipating some key returns in Week 18, including tight end George Kittle, who missed Sunday's tilt against Chicago with an ankle injury.
While getting Kittle back on the field is vital, having Pearsall as a field-stretching menace who's making serious impacts as of late will ultimately set up quarterback Brock Purdy and Co. for more success underneath against a Hawks group that enters the week with the league's No. 2 best scoring defense.
Earlier in the season at a point when the second-year pro wasn't making much of an impact, at least statistically, his presence nevertheless opened up more opportunities for weapons like running back Christian McCaffrey to get more involved in the receiving game. Fellow wide receiver Jauan Jennings, too, who lacks the top-end speed Pearsall possesses.
If Pearsall is also tallying yardage and receptions, it'll make the offense's prospects for moving the ball with regularity that much easier.
In light of the Niners' own defensive deficiencies, which were on full display against the Bears, having an offense running full bore might be the only way to hand Seattle its fourth defeat on the season, thereby clinching the No. 1 seed in the conference.
And to do that, Pearsall needs to stay hot.