Former Gator Eddy Piñeiro looks like San Francisco’s solution at kicker

Thanks to former Florida Gator Eddy Piñeiro, the San Francisco 49ers’ kicking woes might finally be over. On Sunday, the veteran kicker drilled a 35-yard field goal as time expired, giving the 49ers a dramatic 16-15 win over the Arizona Cardinals.

For a fan base that has endured weeks of frustration with the position, Levi’s Stadium erupted as Piñeiro’s kick sailed down the middle.

A clutch answer to 49ers’ kicking troubles

The 49ers had grown tired of the inconsistency. Jake Moody, a 3rd-round pick in 2023, missed two of his first three kicks this season before San Francisco moved on. The decision left fans wondering whether the team could trust another kicker when the game was on the line.

Thankfully for them, Piñeiro provided the answer. The former Gator was called upon in the final seconds and buried the kick without hesitation.

“Obviously this one’s extra special because of the whole kicking situation that was going on here and what the Niner fans went through, and what the team went through,” Piñeiro said after the game. “It was a big kick.”

For Piñeiro, who turned 30 this year, the moment wasn’t new. He has now hit eight game-winning kicks in his NFL career, showing again he’s built for high-pressure situations.

However, he admitted this one felt different. The combination of a new team, shaky kicking past in San Francisco, and the weight of a close game made Sunday one of the more meaningful moments in his career.

Kyle Shanahan showed his trust

Head coach Kyle Shanahan said he debated giving Piñeiro a shot earlier in the drive but held off. The decision worked out though, as the 49ers’ offense pushed closer and set up the perfect chance for him.

After the game, Shanahan rewarded him by letting Piñeiro lead the team huddle.

“We’ve enjoyed him here in these two weeks and liked how he handled himself,” Shanahan said. “Definitely like guys even more when they make kicks.”

Not a member of Gators Online?

CLICK HERE to join the Gators Online community! It’s the top place for passionate Florida fans to find the best insight and news in the market. 

Boasting a talented collection of experienced journalists, we dig deep into recruiting and provide breaking news and analysis on UF sports.

SIGN UP for the GatorsOnline Newsletter — Receive Breaking News, In-Depth Analysis via Email!