San Francisco 49ers’ star wide receiver Deebo Samuel played nine offensive snaps in the Niners’ 24-21 Divisional Round playoff win over the Green Bay Packers.
While Samuel may not be the best offensive skill player on San Francisco’s offense, there’s no denying he is the most dynamic. Samuel is one of the most crucial pieces to the electric puzzle that is the 49ers’ offensive unit.
Without Samuel, others had to step up, and first on the list was former Tennessee football wide receiver Jauan Jennings.
Jennings has been the third wide receiver for San Francisco the past couple of seasons, serving as one of the top third-down targets on the team.
Typically, though, Jennings’ opportunities to make an impact are limited to two to three catches per game. Saturday was different.
Jennings caught five of six targets for 61 yards, setting a season-high in catches and yards in a single game. But what doesn’t show up in the box score is how significant Jennings’ catches were.
Four of Jennings’ catches converted first downs, with two coming on third down and two coming on second down.
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In particular, catches of 16, 12, 5 and 21 converted 2nd & 10, 2nd & 9, 3rd & 2, and 3rd & 10, respectively.
Jennings finished second in receiving on the team to tight end George Kittle. The four-year vet delivered in a big way when the team needed him most.
Here’s a look at some of Jennings’ best highlights from the win.
The Standout Play
3rd & 10 Conversion:
- Jennings goes airborne to catch the ball and holds on through a big hit from Packers’ safety Anthony Johnson Jr.
Jauan Jennings appreciation post 🫡
— OurSF49ers (@OurSf49ers) January 21, 2024
Full Highlight Reel:
Jauan Jennings is the definition of Clutch:
• 6 targets
• 5 catches
• 4 first downs
• 61 yards receivingThird and Jauan was his typical self last night as he came up big play after play
Here’s a look at all 5 of his catches: pic.twitter.com/QgESX37QuX
— Coach Yac 🗣 (@Coach_Yac) January 21, 2024
In addition to Jennings’ catches, he made a memorable block in the win. Previously dubbed as the one of the best blocking WRs in the NFL by teammate Christian McCaffrey on the ManningCast, Jennings drove Packer defender Corey Ballentine all the way to the Gatorade table on a block you don’t see many wide receivers execute.
#49ers WR Jauan Jennings blocking #Packers CB Corey Ballentine … all the way to the Gatorade table.pic.twitter.com/VuXjNO4CSb
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) January 21, 2024
Jennings’ intensity and ‘DAWG’ mentality show up in his play. With his elite blocking skills and ability to deliver in clutch moments, Jennings figures to be a staple in the 49ers’ offense moving forward in their postseason run.
Jennings and the 49ers will be back in Santa Clara next week to host either the Tampa Bay Buccaneers or the Detroit Lions in the NFC Conference Championship game.
