The San Francisco 49ers opened their 2019 season with a bang, as quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo threw two touchdowns in his return from elbow surgery, leading the team to a 30-7 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Garoppolo, who was sidelined for most of the 2018 season due to a torn ACL, had been out since September with a sprained elbow. He was cleared to play just days before the season opener and showed no signs of rust. He completed 18 of 27 passes for 166 yards and two touchdowns, both of which were to tight end George Kittle.
The 49ers defense also had a strong showing, limiting the Steelers to just seven points and forcing four turnovers. Linebacker Fred Warner led the way with 11 tackles and an interception.
The win was a much-needed boost for the 49ers, who had been struggling in recent years. The team had not won a season opener since 2013 and had not won a game against the Steelers since 2011.
Garoppolo’s return was a major factor in the victory. His ability to spread the ball around and make plays with his feet gave the offense a spark that it had been lacking in recent years. His performance was a reminder of why the 49ers invested so heavily in him last year.
The 49ers will look to build on this victory as they face off against the Cincinnati Bengals next week. With Garoppolo back in the lineup, the team looks poised to make some noise in the NFC West this season.
