Both the Oakland Raiders and San Francisco 49ers would not have won their respective games this past weekend if they hadn't had excellent play from their special teams. And in line with their outstanding play, the Bay is sporting both NFL special teams players of the week as 49ers kicker David Akers and Raiders defensive tackle Richard Seymour took home the honors for each of their impressive achievements during the Christmas weekend.
Seymour blocked two important field goals in the Silver and Blacks 16-13 overtime win over their AFC West rivals the Kansas City Chiefs with playoff implications for both on the line. Seymour's first block came on the last play before halftime ensuring the Chiefs brought no momentum into the locker room. His second came on the last play of regulation, blocking the potential game-winning 49-yard attempt, forcing overtime and eventually a Raiders win.
As for Akers, he sank four field goals from multiple distances (53, 29, 44 and 39 yards), including the eventual game-winner. Akers would end up scoring 13 points for the 49ers, sealing their 19-17 win against the Seahawks in Seattle. Akers, the 13 year veteran from Louisville, surpassed Neil Rackers record of 40 field goals made in a season as well; Akers currently has 42 makes this year. He also surpassed 49ers legend Jerry Rice for a franchise-record 156 points in a single season. Rice's previous record was 138.