by Jonathan Storti
Team origins: The San Francisco 49ers were established just after World War II, and became a member of the National Football League in 1950. For much of the 1950s and 1960s San Francisco fielded good teams, but were unable to win a championship. The 49ers were not afraid to spend money, as was the case with their, “Million Dollar” backfield. The backfield was helmed by quarterback Y.A. Tittle and three future Hall of Fame running backs. It was not till Eddie DeBartolo Jr. bought the team and brought in Bill Walsh as head coach did the 49ers achieve a championship. DeBartolo was a great owner, who knew the roles of everyone in the organization, and was determined to bring success to the 49ers.
Famous players: Joe Montana – The incomparable quarterback from Notre Dame; during his thirteen years with the 49ers, Montana led his team to four Super Bowl wins. Montana was always cool under pressure, especially when he led the 49ers on an 87 yard TD drive, late in the 4th quarter of Super Bowl XXIII.
Jerry Rice – He is the all-time leader in almost every receiving category. Rice helped San Francisco capture three Super Bowls, as he became Joe Montana’s favorite target. Rice’s success was due to his incredible work ethic; he would train year round, always trying to get better.
Steve Young – The left handed quarterback from BYU, had to backup Montana for a number of years before getting a chance to start. When he finally started fans were not disappointed; Young became the best quarterback in the league. He led the 49ers to a crushing victory over the San Diego Chargers in Super Bowl XXIX.
All-time great games: On January 10, 1982 the San Francisco 49ers met the Dallas Cowboys in the NFC championship game. The dominating Cowboys were looking for yet another Super Bowl berth, while the fledgling 49ers were looking for their first. The game was hotly contested throughout, with many lead changes. Late in the 4th quarter Montana drove San Francisco down the field needing a touchdown. On a third down play near the Cowboy endzone, Montana rolled right escaping some of the pressure. Just before he was tackled, Montana threw to the back of the endzone. Many thought it was throw away pass, until Dwight Clark jumped out of nowhere in the back of the endzone to make a leaping catch. The touchdown put the 49ers ahead and gave them a trip to the Super Bowl. Montana would lead the 49ers to victory in that game, as well as three other Super Bowls. All of that might have been for naught, had Dwight Clark failed to make that play, famously dubbed, “The Catch”.
League Identity: For a franchise that has only existed a little over 50 years, the 49ers have tremendous history. They have countless Hall of Famers and many memorable games. San Francisco has shown that it is the power house of west coast pro football. They are second only to the Pittsburgh Steelers in Super Bowls won, with five. Under new head coach Mike Singletary, the 49ers have shown a strong desire to get back to their championship days. The past decade had been rough for the 49ers, but it appears they have turned the corner, with solid drafting and good coaching.
A cool tribute for fans
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