Falcons vs. 49ers 2013: San Francisco closes out Candlestick Park with close win

Our SB Nation writers are sounding off on the 49ers victory over the Falcons on Monday Night Football.

The 49ers ended their stint at Candlestick Park with a last-minute win over the Falcons. Linebacker Navarro Bowman was able to intercept a pass that fell off the hands of Falcons wide receiver Harry Douglas and returned it for a game-sealing touchdown. The score extended the 49ers lead to 34-24, after a powerful performance by running back Frank Gore (97 rushing yards and a touchdown) and wide receiver Michael Crabtree (five receptions for 102 yards). Quarterback Colin Kaepernick also provided passing and rushing touchdowns for his team.

The Falcons stayed close with the 49ers for much of the game, despite being among the worst teams in the league. A big night from Roddy White (12 catches for 141 receiving yards and a touchdown) helped Atlanta stay in the game. Veterans Tony Gonzalez (8 catches for 63 yards and a touchdown) and Stephen Jackson (16 carries for 53 rushing yards and a touchdown) both provided quality performances for the Falcons.

James Brady of Niners Nation is thrilled to come out of the game with win, despite some early adversity:

The 49ers had a poor first half, from Colin Kaepernick struggling to find his men downfield to poor play-calling, but the offense really hit its stride in the second half. Well, it hit its stride aside from Vance McDonald and Vernon Davis, who did their best to avoid catching any passes on the day. They out-played the defense by a wide margin, and the game was incredibly close for it.
But whatever. They won. If they win again in Week 17 and Seattle loses, the 49ers will have a first round bye. But for now, they're in the playoffs and that's what matters. Go 49ers.