Eagles-49ers rematch showed Deebo Samuel’s trash talk is justified — and perhaps just what San Francisco needs

PHILADELPHIA — Deebo Samuel waved to the crowd with his left hand and then waved with his right, as he jogged out of the end zone.

The Philadelphia Eagles fans Samuel trolled were trying to enjoy a home game when, instead, Samuel made their end zone his second home for the night.

On just seven touches, Samuel raced to 138 yards and three touchdowns from scrimmage.

On his last burn, celebrated with waves, Samuel had cut inside while a blocker eliminated Eagles cornerback James Bradberry, previously matched on Samuel. He raced past defensive linemen and then linebackers as he sliced through the middle of the field. Samuel was not even touched as he gained 48 yards after the catch (46 net) on his way to capping off the Niners’ 42-19 win.

“He’s got great foot drive, he’s excellent after contact, he always finishes falling forward,” 49ers left tackle Trent Williams said. “He’s a special player, and I think his performance today shows that he’s a special player.”

Samuel’s performance indeed reflected why the 49ers have won all nine games in which he’s been healthy this season, why they lost three straight games when he was sidelined with a shoulder fracture, and why any NFL opponent should fear them when he’s in the lineup.

San Francisco’s stacked offense runs so much deeper than just Samuel. But his combination of power, balance and elusiveness — in concert with his teammates’ well-placed, well-timed blocks — confound and wear down defenses physically and psychologically.

Waving goodbye after a 46-yard touchdown scored against the cornerback he dismissed this offseason as “trash”? Some franchises would think Samuel is running his mouth into danger. The 49ers feast off the energy he brings as they make their argument for the NFL’s best team.

“I love the fact that he can talk and set the stage and walk into a hostile environment and just thrive,” defensive end Nick Bosa said. “That’s what greatness is made of, for sure.”

Deebo…

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Author : Yahoo Sports

Publish date : 2023-12-04 07:03:33

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