2013 NFC Championship: Colin Kaepernick Credits 49ers Line For Place in Conference Championship
By Josh Sanchez
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick is the early star of the divisional round of the NFL playoffs after having a historic performance on Saturday against the Green Bay Packers. Kaepernick accounted for 444 yards of offense — which included 181 rushing yards — and four touchdowns in the 49ers win.
Kaepernick’s 181 rushing yards set a new all-time NFL record for rushing yards by a quarterback in a single-game.
After a performance of that caliber, it would be easy for Kaepernick to take the credit and watch his star continue to shine, but the humble former Nevada quarterback did what every good teammate would do and gave credit to his offensive line for the incredible rushing output.
“Our offensive line came out and they dominated upfront, so that makes it easy on a quarterback,” Kaepernick said.
Kaepernick was flat out balling all game long and showed the world why head coach Jim Harbaugh was ready to hand him the keys to the San Francisco offense. Kaepernick’s awkward but effective running style kept the Packers defense off balance and allowed him to find open throwing lanes in the passing game.
It would be okay for Kaepernick to enjoy his all-time great performance and accept some credit, but he continued to praise the big men in front of him.
“Our offensive line played great today, they did a lot of things well upfront — our running backs ran well and our receivers made plays,” Kaepernick said. “It makes it a lot easier on me when other people are making plays.”
Kaepernick is doing and saying all of the right things. With his play on the field, he has won over his teammates and blossomed into a young leader. Off the field, he spreads the credit and makes the offensive line proud to call him their quarterback.
You know the linemen have heard Kaepernick’s comments and it will motivate them that much more to go out and protect a man that is appreciating their effort.