George Kittle of the San Francisco 49ers continues to earn his reputation as one of the most entertaining mic’d up players in NFL history. Known for his humorous quips on and off the field, Kittle added another memorable moment during Sunday’s NFC Championship Game.
“Inside the NFL” captured a delightful exchange between Kittle and Detroit Lions edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson at Levi’s Stadium. After a play, Hutchinson remarked to Kittle, “You’re screwing with my proprioception.” Kittle, not missing a beat, responded, “That’s a Michigan word. I’m an Iowa guy, you can’t say stuff like that.”
Honestly, had to look up “proprioception” 😂@gkittle46 | @aidanhutch97 @InsideTheNFL now streaming on @netflix pic.twitter.com/Cjgg1e3XTt
— NFL (@NFL) January 31, 2024
The Kittle vs. Hutchinson showdown was a critical matchup in the NFC Championship Game, with Kittle tasked with containing Detroit’s top defensive lineman during run-blocking plays. Kittle’s contributions went beyond the stat sheet, as he caught just two passes for 27 yards but played a pivotal role in the 49ers’ rushing attack, which gained 155 yards and scored three touchdowns on 33 carries. Hutchinson, on the other hand, recorded two pass defenses.
Despite the Lions taking a commanding 24-7 lead into halftime, the resilient 49ers mounted an incredible comeback, scoring 27 consecutive points. Detroit managed to score once more in the final minute, but it was too little too late. The 49ers secured a 34-31 victory, earning them a spot in Super Bowl 58, where they will face the Kansas City Chiefs.