UPDATE: Skyy Moore is on the brink of making history as he chases his first career touchdown, following an impressive 66-yard punt return during the San Francisco 49ers’ decisive 26-8 victory over the Cleveland Browns on October 15, 2023. Aiming to end the 49ers’ lengthy drought in the return game, Moore is determined to find the end zone.
The 49ers, boasting a 9-4 record, have not seen a punt return touchdown since the 2011 season opener, when Ted Ginn Jr. accomplished the feat. Moore’s electrifying performance adds urgency to his quest as he remarks, “That’s what I’m chasing. Whatever comes between that, I’ll take it.”
Moore’s standout play set up the team’s first touchdown of the game, showcasing his potential as a game-changer. “Any time he gets the ball, I just love the way he hits it,” said teammate and running back Christian McCaffrey. “He plays with zero hesitation.”
After joining the 49ers from the Kansas City Chiefs in a trade this past August, Moore encountered early challenges, including a muffed return in the season opener. However, his performance in Cleveland marks a significant turnaround. Despite a modest 24-yard return on the opening kickoff, his remarkable 66-yard punt return propelled the 49ers to a 7-0 lead, with McCaffrey scoring shortly after.
“I’m in that zone,” Moore stated. “We’re getting better as a unit.” He expressed disappointment that he did not score on his third return attempt, believing he could have if the Browns’ punter had kicked the ball further. “If he would have kicked it five more yards, I was gone, because they blocked it perfect,” Moore explained.
This latest return not only marks the longest of Moore’s career but also stands as the 49ers’ longest punt return since Ginn’s 78-yard return in 2010. “He’s been doing a hell of a job putting us in a great position,” McCaffrey added, highlighting Moore’s evolving role on the team.
Moore currently ranks fifth in the NFL with a 28.1-yard average per kick return and tenth among punt returners with a 12.1-yard average. Coach Kyle Shanahan praised Moore’s growth, stating, “Every time he gets the ball, we feel he’s got a chance to go.”
As Moore continues to push for his first touchdown, the 49ers head into their bye week, eager to build on this momentum. With each game, Moore’s determination and skill set promise not only personal success but also a brighter future for the 49ers’ special teams.
Expect to see Skyy Moore’s relentless pursuit of that elusive touchdown as the 49ers prepare for their next match-up. The excitement surrounding his potential is palpable, making this a thrilling narrative to follow in the coming weeks.
