When Eddy Pineiro, the 30‑year‑old kicker for the San Francisco 49ers stepped up on Thursday, October 3, 2025, his 41‑yard field goal bounced off the left upright and still split the uprights, sealing a 26‑23 overtime win against the Los Angeles Rams. The kick came during the Thursday night overtime clashLevi's Stadium, Santa Clara, California and immediately sparked celebration among 49ers fans who have been craving a reliable leg after the mid‑season release of Jake Moody. Pineiro’s perfect night – two field goals and the lone extra point – gave San Francisco a 2‑0 start and put the NFC West on notice.
Historical Context: A Kicker’s Journey to the Bay
Born in Miami on September 13, 1995, Pineiro grew up in a multicultural household – a Cuban father who once played for the Fort Lauderdale Strikers and a Nicaraguan mother who fled the Sandinista‑Contra conflict. After starring at the University of Florida, he entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent, signing with the Oakland Raiders on May 4, 2018. Over eight seasons he bounced around – stints with the Carolina Panthers, a brief tenure with the Raiders, and a solid 2024 campaign where he made 22 of 26 field‑goal attempts – before the 49ers gave him a one‑year deal in September 2025.
His arrival came after the 49ers’ 2025 draft choices and free‑agency moves left the kicking department in flux. The team cut Moody following two missed field goals in a 17‑13 loss to Seattle, a decision that analysts called one of the franchise’s “worst draft mistakes in recent memory.” Pineiro, ranked as the third‑most accurate kicker in NFL history at 88.1 % through 2024, was expected to bring stability, but fans remained skeptical after an early‑season miss in New Orleans.
Game‑by‑Game Details: How the Overtime Thriller Unfolded
The Rams struck first, taking a 10‑3 lead midway through the second quarter. The 49ers answered with a 12‑0 run, thanks to a rushing touchdown by running back Christian McCaffrey and a 45‑yard field goal from Pineiro. Both teams exchanged blows, and the score stood at 23‑23 heading into the final minutes of regulation.
With 1:12 left, the Rams drove to the 49ers' 35‑yard line but missed a 52‑yard attempt that sailed wide. After a quick timeout, Pineiro set up for a 41‑yard try. The ball hit the left upright, ricocheted, and still found its way between the posts. The stadium erupted as the scoreboard updated to 26‑23.
Key Statistics
- Field‑goal accuracy: 100 % (2/2) for Pineiro
- Extra points: 1/1
- Rams total yards: 384 (206 passing, 178 rushing)
- 49ers total yards: 371 (210 passing, 161 rushing)
- Injuries reported: 8 starters on the 49ers’ side line
Reactions: Coaches, Players, and Fans Speak
Head coach Kyle Shanahan praised Pineiro’s composure: “He’s a guy who thrives under pressure. That kick was a textbook example of poise, especially after the early miss in New Orleans.” Quarterback Brock Purdy added, “We trusted Eddy all the way. Knowing he can turn a game around gives us confidence every snap.”
Rams defensive coordinator Brandon Staley lamented the missed opportunity, saying, “We had a chance to close it out. The special teams battle is a part of the game we can’t overlook.” Meanwhile, social media lit up with memes of the ball “bouncing off the upright like a hockey puck,” and fans flooded ESPN’s comment section with “Pineiro for MVP!” chants.
Impact Assessment: What the Win Means for San Francisco
The victory does more than improve the record; it validates the front office’s gamble on a veteran specialist. With a 2‑0 start, the 49ers now share the NFC West lead with the Arizona Cardinals, while the Rams slip to 2‑1. Fantasy football owners are already updating their lineups, labeling Pineiro as a “must‑start” kicker thanks to his high‑accuracy profile and the 49ers’ early‑season red‑zone opportunities.
Defensively, the win also highlighted the contribution of rookie linebackers who forced a goal‑line stop in the final minute of regulation, preventing a potential Rams field goal that would have forced extra time. The combined effort signals that, despite a roster riddled with injuries, the 49ers can still execute in clutch moments.
Looking Ahead: Upcoming Challenges and Pineiro’s Role
Next week the 49ers travel to face the Seattle Seahawks, a division rival that already boasts a 2‑1 record. Analysts expect a tight contest, and special‑teams consistency will be essential. If Pineiro continues his perfect streak, he could finish the season with double‑digit game‑winning kicks – a rare feat in modern NFL history.
Beyond the field, Pineiro’s story resonates with the growing Latino presence in the league. His heritage and community involvement have spurred discussions about increased outreach programs in Miami’s underserved neighborhoods, a cause he’s begun championing during off‑season visits.
Key Facts
- Date: October 3, 2025 (Thursday night)
- Location: Levi's Stadium, Santa Clara, California
- Final Score: 49ers 26, Rams 23 (OT)
- Winning Play: 41‑yard field goal by Eddy Pineiro
- 49ers Record: 2‑0; NFC West tie at the top
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Pineiro’s performance affect the 49ers’ kicking stability?
After the release of Jake Moody, the 49ers were scrambling for a dependable leg. Pineiro’s flawless night – 100 % on field goals and extra points – demonstrates that San Francisco now has a reliable option, reducing the risk of missed points that could swing close games.
What were the key moments that led to the overtime showdown?
The Rams opened with a 10‑3 lead, but the 49ers responded with a rushing TD and a Pineiro field goal to tie at 13‑13. A late fourth‑quarter Rams drive stalled, and a missed 52‑yard try left the game tied at 23‑23, forcing overtime where Pineiro’s heroics decided the outcome.
Who are the main stakeholders reacting to the win?
Head coach Kyle Shanahan and quarterback Brock Purdy praised Pineiro, while Rams coordinator Brandon Staley expressed disappointment. Fans, fantasy owners, and analysts have all taken notice, with many now viewing the 49ers as a stronger playoff contender despite injury concerns.
What does this win mean for the NFC West race?
The 49ers join the Arizona Cardinals at 2‑0, pulling level with the division leader. The Rams fall to 2‑1, and Seattle sits at 2‑1 as well, making every upcoming game pivotal for the West’s top spot.
What are the expectations for Pineiro in the upcoming weeks?
If he maintains his 88.1 % career accuracy, Pineiro could finish the season among the league’s elite kickers. Expect him to be a go‑to fantasy asset and a key factor in close games as the 49ers navigate a schedule filled with division rivals.