49ers vs. Rams Video: Watch David Akers' Surprise TD Pass to Michael Crabtree

San Francisco 49ers kicker David Akers' touchdown pass to Michael Crabtree on Sunday against the St. Louis Rams didn't seem to matter much, with the 49ers already exerting their dominance.

But after the Rams outscored the 49ers, 17-7, in the fourth quarter, Akers' play ended up being needed, as the 49ers held on to win, 34-27, capturing the NFC's No. 2 seed in the process.

For the most part, teams know what the 49ers are trying to do this season: run the ball, use a fairly conservative approach in the passing game and play lockdown defense.

But it is worth noting the 49ers have had a few plays like this throughout the season. Heck, offensive linemen Joe Staley and Isaac Sopoaga had catches of 17 yards and 18 yards, respectively, against the Cleveland Browns in Week 8.

Sunday's play wasn't met with much resistance by the Rams. Sure, fake kicks can surprise teams every once in a while, but when a receiver is lined up on the left sideline and nobody is even in his vicinity, that's just bad football.

As for the 49ers, they've been playing great football this season, and their 13-3 final mark gets them into the playoffs with a first-round bye, right below the defending champion Green Bay Packers.

Sunday's close game was a bit concerning for the 49ers, given they were facing a 2-13 team, but rookie head coach Jim Harbaugh continues to prove why he should win Coach of the Year.

Nobody is doubting whether he can transition from college to the pros now.