Shanahan's trick play sparks 49ers with 80-yard Deebo Samuel score vs. Cardinals
San Francisco opened its game against Arizona with a third-down trick play. Brock Purdy completed a short pass to Mike Evans, who flipped the ball to Deebo Samuel, and Samuel took it 80 yards for a touchdown. The 49ers' design and downfield blocking helped the hook-and-ladder succeed.
Kyle Shanahan entered the game with a reputation for inventive play design, and San Francisco’s opening series against Arizona gave him an early chance to show it. Facing third-and-12 from deep in its own end, the offense used a hook-and-lateral rather than a conventional call.
Brock Purdy hit Mike Evans on a hitch, and Evans immediately flipped the ball to Deebo Samuel, who was crossing underneath from the opposite side. Samuel covered 80 yards for a touchdown. Tight end Luke Farrell helped spring it by blocking ahead and continuing after the lateral.
This highlight may reinforce the NFL’s entertainment value, giving 49ers fans a memorable moment and drawing casual viewers to replays and analysis. Coaches and young players could study the design as an example of teamwork, timing, and downfield blocking. For Arizona, it may serve as a frustrating teaching moment. Its broader social impact is likely limited to sports culture, where viral plays can briefly shape conversation and inspire imitation.