There was a lot for 49ers fans to celebrate on Sunday. San Francisco’s record-setting defense pitched a shutout in a 26-0 victory over the St. Louis Rams; the victory clinched the division title for the 49ers, and Frank Gore’s 73 yards rushing made him the 49ers all time leading rusher.
Gore passed Hall of Famer Joe “The Jet” Perry to become San Francisco’s career rushing leader, with 7,396 yards as a 49er. The 49ers haven’t made the post-season since 2002, and unfortunately Gore arrived in 2005, and so has never had the opportunity to play in a playoff game. Accomplishing both feats in a single game is a great accomplishment.
“Yes it feels great. It is a blessing,” Gore said after the game. “The main thing that I am happy about is that I get the opportunity to play in the post season.”
Not to down play the importance of the record to Gore. He also took time to thank his offensive line and coaches along the way for helping him reach the record:
“I first have to say thanks to the man up above for letting me do something that I love to do and to have my name being mentioned with some of the guys who were here before me. I also have to give a shout out to all of my o-linemen that have helped me get this record. The ones who are here now and the ones who were here before. All of the coaches. It is just a blessing and I am happy.”
He also heard from another legend who played running back with the 49ers, during their Super Bowl years in the 1990s. “Roger [Craig], texted me and said that I deserve it and to keep going,” Gore said. “He is happy that I will get the chance to get to the playoffs for the first time. He said that he wishes the best for me.”
With Gore leading the 49ers running attack, and the air tight defense, they stand a good chance for a playoff run. Currently, they have the number 2 seed, and so would get a first round bye as well. One win, and they could be on to the frozen tundra for the NFC title game.
“Anything can happen in the postseason,” Gore said. “It is just all about perfect timing.”
