Leading up to the NFC Championship game between the San Francisco 49ers and the Detroit Lions, Deebo Samuel had succinctly commented on C.J. Gardner-Johnson. However, Gardner-Johnson’s blindsiding hit on Samuel during the game resulted in a 15-yard penalty for a personal foul, contrary to the preference expressed by Lions coach Dan Campbell for avoiding such actions. Despite the penalty, the Lions initially took a 20-7 lead, with Gardner-Johnson waving goodbye to the 49ers on the Fox broadcast. Nevertheless, Samuel and the 49ers ultimately secured a 34-31 victory, advancing to Super Bowl LIII against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Post-game, when asked about Gardner-Johnson’s personal foul, Samuel offered a brief response, emphasizing the need to face him directly. The history between the two players includes a previous exchange of barbs during Week 6, sparked by a viral video showing a scuffle between the 49ers and the Cleveland Browns. This led to social media spats, with Gardner-Johnson questioning Samuel’s toughness and the latter responding with a video of another player confronting Gardner-Johnson.
Known for his outspokenness, Gardner-Johnson continued the trash talk on Twitter and Instagram, challenging Samuel on and off the field. Despite uncertainties about Samuel’s availability due to injury during the week, he was ultimately active for the NFC title game and contributed significantly with eight receptions for 89 yards in the 49ers’ victory.
