The San Francisco 49ers suffered a tough early injury in the first minutes of the 2012 NFC Championship Game. The 49ers offensive line has been one of their strongest part, but after a rush by Kendall Hunter, Hunter went down on the right leg of Mike Iupati.
Chilo Rachal came in to take the place of Iupati when he went out for the rest of the first drive, while Adam Snyder moved over to left guard. But there does seem to be good news.
Giants get first down. Iupati got ankle re-wrapped and his walking around. Looks like he's going to give it a go on 49ers next possession.
— Matt Maiocco (@MaioccoCSN) January 22, 2012
Mike Iupati announced with a right ankle injury with "probable" return: I'd say very probable as he's on the field for the #49ers next drive
— Mindi Bach (@MBachCSN) January 22, 2012
Iupati is one of the most impressive blockers for San Francisco especially in his young age, and his loss would definitely felt. If Iupati can come back and play effectively for the rest of this game, it'd be huge for the 49ers. It's still scoreless early in Candlestick Park.
To discuss Iupati and the 49ers, head on over to Niners Nation. To talk about the Giants, go to Big Blue View.