Saints vs. 49ers: Vernon Davis Cements Legacy as San Francisco Legend

Vernon Davis has been a leader for the San Francisco 49ers on and off the field since he was drafted in 2006, but he cemented his legacy as a legend in the city with his performance on Saturday.

It was a matchup against the vaunted New Orleans Saints in the second round of the NFL playoffs that brought the best out of Davis. The Pro Bowl tight end caught seven passes for 180 yards and two touchdowns. The latter of his two scores ended up being the game winner with just seconds left in the game.

If there were any 49ers fans left that didn’t respect Davis for his heart and courage, they are on board now. As for the rest of the fans that saw the man for who he was, he has rewarded you with the biggest game of his life.

It’s not over, though, and Vernon Davis isn’t done turning himself from another 49ers star into one of the biggest legends in the storied franchises history. A big NFC Championship game that helps San Francisco get to the Super Bowl would make Davis the biggest star since Terrell Owens.

Davis has a chance that few other stars have ever had. Not only can he help put his team in the Super Bowl and make himself look great with another stellar game, he could almost single-handedly turn the perception of QB Alex Smith as a mediocre quarterback.

Smith has done a nice job all season avoiding turnovers, but much of the reason he played so well this season was the willingness of new head coach Jim Harbaugh and the team to give the ball to Davis more often.

There is no doubt that Davis is one of the better tight ends in the league today, but getting the reputation as a player that shows up big during crucial games will keep him around the NFL and especially in San Fran for years to come.

If he leads the 49ers to a Super Bowl win, he would never have to buy a drink again.

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