During the first half of the NFC Championship Game on Sunday, the San Francisco 49ers looked like they were dead in the water, with the Detroit Lions in complete control, having taken a 24-7 lead into halftime at Levi’s Stadium in the Bay Area.

Despite having the support of their fans at home, the 49ers couldn’t keep up with what seemed to be a highly motivated and prepared Lions team that desperately wanted to advance to the Super Bowl.

Unfortunately for Detroit, the second half turned out to be a different game entirely, with San Francisco taking control and riding momentum all the way to an impressive come-from-behind win.

The 49ers ultimately defeated the visiting Lions and will face the Kansas City Chiefs at Allegiant Stadium in February.

After the game, star tight end George Kittle had some choice words for those who believe that momentum isn’t something that can lead to a win in the NFL, with analytics not backing up the theory, via KNBR.

“I have a question for you guys,” Kittle said. “Why do analytics people say that momentum isn’t a real thing? I had a conversation with Pat McAfee. He was like, ‘All these people try to say momentum is not real.’ And that’s just the biggest load of horse crap I’ve ever heard my entire life.”

George Kittle says he doesn't know why some football analysts don't believe in momentum, then describes how the Levi's crowd helped shift momentum in the 2nd half pic.twitter.com/sHmU1IkIQY

— KNBR (@KNBR) January 29, 2024

Clearly, Kittle is a big momentum guy, as he believes emotion on the field and belief in your team and teammates can fuel a squad to victory, even if it seems as though the game is out of reach.

With the 49ers advancing to the Super Bowl, Kittle and company will have their hands full against the Chiefs and may benefit from having the stands packed with their fans due to their proximity to Las Vegas, which could help in the momentum department during the game.

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