Deebo Samuel expressed his frustration over a dropped pass that cost the 49ers a win against the Rams in a close game.
He had been vocal on social media about wanting more touches, and the coach set up a game plan that featured him prominently. But then came that one play—a dropped pass that could have been a touchdown.
“Real, very frustrating,” he said. “If I catch that ball, it’s just me and the end zone.” That drop led to a field goal, which turned out to be the last points the 49ers scored. The Rams then kicked three field goals to seal their win.
Samuel mentioned that the weather at Levi’s Stadium wasn’t a factor. They had planned to run the ball more due to the rain. He took the loss personally, feeling he could have changed the outcome.
Tight end George Kittle offered some words of encouragement after the game. “He said, ‘I’ve seen you make that play a million times. Don’t let it eat you up,’” Samuel recalled. But he couldn’t shake the feeling that if he had made that catch, they would have won.
Now, the 49ers have a long break before heading to Miami for their next game. Even if they win, their playoff hopes are looking pretty slim.