When the 49ers pulled off a stunning trick play in their playoff win over the Eagles, it wasn’t just a highlight-it was a nod to franchise history. Wide receiver Jauan Jennings, known more for his physicality and edge than finesse, dialed up one of the most memorable moments of San Francisco’s season by throwing a touchdown pass to Christian McCaffrey. It was gutsy, it was perfectly executed, and it helped topple the defending Super Bowl champs in their own house.
But here’s where it gets even better: 49ers legend Jerry Rice saw that play and immediately thought, “I’ve done that.” And he’s right.
Back in 1995, during a game against the Atlanta Falcons, Rice ran a nearly identical play. Steve Young handed the ball off to a running back, who flipped it to Rice on a reverse.
The exchange was a little shaky-Rice bobbled the ball-but he gathered himself and delivered a strike downfield to J.J. Stokes for a touchdown.
The play, known internally as the “Skyy Bang Reverse,” was a rare moment where the greatest receiver of all time got to show off his arm.
Fast forward to this season, and Jennings channeled that same energy. The play design was clever, the timing was perfect, and the execution-especially under pressure-was impressive.
Jennings took a shot as he released the ball, didn’t even see the touchdown happen live, and still got the job done. The hit even drew a roughing the passer penalty, a rarity for a wide receiver.
For Rice, that 1995 trick play remains one of the highlights of his Hall of Fame career, despite all the records and accolades. And while his passing stat line-3-for-10, 71 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT-won’t blow anyone away, it’s moments like that which stick in a player’s memory.
Jennings, meanwhile, is quietly building a résumé as the league’s most dangerous wide receiver-quarterback hybrid. A former high school QB, he’s now 2-for-2 in the NFL, both completions going for touchdowns to McCaffrey.
The first came in the Super Bowl against the Chiefs in early 2024. The second helped knock out the Eagles in this year’s playoffs.
It’s a small sample size, sure, but the efficiency is wild. Two passes, two touchdowns, and both on the biggest stages imaginable.
Jennings has built a reputation as a tough, physical receiver who loves to mix it up-whether that’s blocking defenders into the bench or jawing with DBs after the whistle. But now, he’s added a new wrinkle to his game. He’s not just a tone-setter-he’s a playmaker in every sense of the word.
The Niners’ season didn’t end the way they wanted. A week later, they were bounced in Seattle.
But that win in Philly? That was a statement.
And that trick play? That was legacy stuff.
A callback to one of the greatest to ever wear the uniform, and a reminder that in San Francisco, wide receivers throwing touchdowns is more than a gimmick-it’s tradition.