30 Facts About 49ers Vs. Saints

The Historic Rivalry

The San Francisco 49ers and New Orleans Saints have a storied history in the NFL. Their matchups have produced memorable moments, thrilling games, and intense competition. Here are some fascinating facts about this rivalry.

1. The 49ers and Saints first faced off on October 22, 1967. The 49ers won 27-13.
2. Both teams were part of the NFC West division until 2002, fostering a fierce rivalry.
3. The 49ers lead the all-time series with a significant margin, having won more games than the Saints.
4. The highest-scoring game between these teams occurred on November 6, 1983, with the 49ers winning 51-42.
5. Joe Montana, the legendary 49ers quarterback, had some of his best games against the Saints, including a 5-touchdown performance in 1987.

Memorable Moments

Certain games between the 49ers and Saints stand out due to their dramatic finishes or record-breaking performances. These moments have cemented the rivalry in NFL history.

6. In 1980, the 49ers overcame a 35-7 halftime deficit to win 38-35 in overtime, one of the greatest comebacks in NFL history.
7. The 2011 NFC Divisional Playoff game saw the 49ers win 36-32, with Alex Smith throwing a game-winning touchdown to Vernon Davis in the final seconds.
8. Drew Brees set a then-NFL record for single-season passing yards in 2011, surpassing Dan Marino's record during a game against the 49ers.
9. The Saints' first-ever playoff win came against the 49ers in 1987, a 44-27 victory.
10. In 2019, the 49ers defeated the Saints 48-46 in a thrilling game that featured seven lead changes.

Legendary Players

Both teams have had their share of legendary players who have left a lasting impact on the rivalry. These athletes have delivered unforgettable performances and set numerous records.

11. Jerry Rice, the 49ers' Hall of Fame wide receiver, had multiple 100-yard games against the Saints.
12. Saints' quarterback Drew Brees holds the record for the most passing yards in games between these two teams.
13. Roger Craig, the versatile 49ers running back, was known for his dual-threat ability, excelling in both rushing and receiving against the Saints.
14. Rickey Jackson, a Hall of Fame linebacker for the Saints, was a dominant force in many matchups against the 49ers.
15. Frank Gore, the 49ers' all-time leading rusher, consistently performed well against the Saints throughout his career.

Coaching Legends

The rivalry has also seen some of the greatest coaches in NFL history on the sidelines, guiding their teams to victory and creating lasting legacies.

16. Bill Walsh, the 49ers' legendary coach, revolutionized the NFL with his West Coast offense, often outsmarting the Saints' defense.
17. Sean Payton, the long-time head coach of the Saints, has a winning record against the 49ers.
18. George Seifert, who succeeded Walsh, continued the 49ers' dominance over the Saints during his tenure.
19. Jim Harbaugh, known for his fiery coaching style, led the 49ers to several key victories over the Saints.
20. Mike Ditka, a Hall of Fame coach, had a brief stint with the Saints and faced the 49ers multiple times.

Records and Achievements

The 49ers and Saints have set numerous records and achieved significant milestones in their matchups. These accomplishments highlight the competitive nature of their rivalry.

21. The 49ers hold the record for the longest winning streak in the series, with 10 consecutive victories from 1981 to 1986.
22. The Saints' largest margin of victory came in 1987, with a 26-point win over the 49ers.
23. The 49ers' largest margin of victory was a 38-point win in 1987.
24. The Saints have scored over 30 points in a game against the 49ers 15 times.
25. The 49ers have scored over 30 points in a game against the Saints 20 times.

Fan Experiences

The fans of both teams have played a crucial role in the rivalry, creating an electric atmosphere in the stadiums and showing unwavering support for their teams.

26. Candlestick Park, the former home of the 49ers, hosted many memorable games against the Saints.
27. The Mercedes-Benz Superdome, the Saints' home stadium, is known for its deafening noise levels, making it a challenging environment for the 49ers.
28. Tailgating is a beloved tradition for both fanbases, with elaborate setups and passionate pre-game festivities.
29. The rivalry has seen numerous fan-made signs and banners, showcasing the creativity and dedication of both teams' supporters.
30. Both teams' fanbases are known for traveling well, often filling the opposing team's stadium with their colors and cheers.

Final Whistle

The 49ers vs. Saints rivalry has given us some unforgettable moments. From Joe Montana's legendary performances to Drew Brees' record-breaking games, these two teams have a rich history. The 49ers have a storied past with five Super Bowl titles, while the Saints brought hope to New Orleans with their 2009 championship. Both teams have passionate fan bases that make every game electric. Whether it's a high-scoring shootout or a defensive battle, this matchup never disappoints. As the NFL evolves, the 49ers and Saints will continue to write new chapters in their rivalry. So, next time these teams face off, you'll know the history behind the hype. Keep these facts in mind and enjoy the game!