David Akers was an amazing pick for my fantasy football team last season. A guaranteed 12-13 points each week? From a kicker? Yes, I think so! On January 1, 2012, he broke the NFL record for most points by a kicker against the St.Louis Rams, and he finished the 2011 season with 166 points. Akers also extended the NFL record for most field goals made, finishing the season with 44, and threw for a touchdown on a fake field goal. To top it all off, Akers made his sixth Pro Bowl.
What Akers did for the 49ers last season was incredible, but it constantly reminded fans about the the Niners’ lack of cohesion and frustration in the red zone. Will the 49ers be a “win-by-field-goal” team again this season?
Related: 49ers Keep Climbing Through the Preseason
A win is a win, but when your team squeaks by with a 2 or 3 point lead from a field goal, sometimes you can’t help but wish it was an impressive last-second touchdown. While the 49ers looked great in the red zone during some games last season, during others they seemed to fall apart. This is when Akers waltzed in and skyrocketed field goals from up to 55 yards out. He was the guy the team depended on, and he usually kept them on the board and in the lead.
Preseason games are not always a clear indicator of how your team will perform during the regular season, but Akers was perfect against the Broncos last Sunday nailing five field goals. He even outscored Peyton Manning who threw two touchdown passes for the Broncos.
We will have to wait and see what really happens this season for the 49ers. Faithful fans everywhere are hoping to see a Super Bowl bound team, with some new offensive additions and a solid defense that makes other teams cower. One thing is for sure, though: Whether or not the 49ers improve on their red zone plays, David Akers will be there. He will be the one keeping morale high and the momentum going.
He definitely is a great pick for fantasy! I know how much all the Eagles fans miss him as well. All around great guy and amazing athlete!