Kyle Shanahan’s Decision Sets Stage for Eddy Piñeiro’s 59-Yard FG Success
In a crucial moment during a tightly contested game, Kyle Shanahan’s decision became pivotal for Eddy Piñeiro’s success with a 59-yard field goal. With under three minutes left on the clock and the score tied against the Los Angeles Rams, the San Francisco 49ers faced a critical fourth-down dilemma.
Kyle Shanahan’s Tough Call
The 49ers were at a crossroads. Past performances had made kick attempts under 40 yards a cause for concern. The previous kicker, Jake Moody, had struggled with accuracy, leaving fans apprehensive. Shanahan reflected on the moment, expressing his skepticism, “It was close… we debated it for a little bit but said screw it, let’s see what he’s got.”
Eddy Piñeiro Delivers Under Pressure
Choosing to rely on Piñeiro, the head coach watched as the kicker succeeded in making a crucial 59-yard field goal, ultimately giving the 49ers a hard-fought three-point lead. “He just showed us he probably could have done it from the 45-yard line,” Shanahan noted, praising Piñeiro’s ability.
Piñeiro’s Impressive Performance
Throughout the game, Piñeiro was flawless, converting all four of his kick attempts. His track record with the 49ers has been remarkable, having missed only once during his tenure, which occurred during an extra point attempt in Week 1 against the New Orleans Saints. In four games, the kicker showed considerable promise.
A Fresh Start
- Previous kicker: Jake Moody
- Moody’s longest field goal: 32 yards
- Moody’s misses included a 27-yard attempt
- Piñeiro’s previous experience: three years with the Carolina Panthers
The decision to bring in Piñeiro followed the 49ers’ initial victory against the Seattle Seahawks, where Moody’s overall performance prompted a change. The inconsistency experienced in the previous season likely influenced Shanahan’s decision to let go of Moody after only one game in 2025. The transition appears to be positive, as fans now see a reliable presence in Piñeiro.
Despite some lingering nervousness among fans, the choice to give Piñeiro the chance to shine has proven beneficial for the team. He took time to celebrate his success in the locker room after the game, showcasing the joy that comes with performing well under pressure.
