NEW ORLEANS – San Francisco 49ers defensive back Chris Culliver was a popular media target for something he shouldn’t have said. The Ravens need to be wary about targeting him too much in Super Bowl XLVII.
Culliver had played well before he brought controversy onto himself when he said a homophobic slur. He had two interceptions and 14 passes defended in the regular season in San Francisco’s sub-packages. In the NFC championship game, he helped cool down Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan with a critical interception.
The San Francisco 49ers' Chris Culliver must let his play do the talking from now on. The defensive back made a homophobic comment this week. (AP Photo)
The Ravens will attack downfield, hoping to burn either Tarrell Brown or Culliver in one-on-one coverage. But in addition to making strong plays on the ball, Culliver, at 6-0, 199 pounds, is a good second-year tackler from the secondary (48 total in ’12).
Many Niners defenders came out in support for Culliver, both for his young misstep off the field and his contributions on it.
“He said what he said yesterday and I know that’s not his heart,” 49ers linebackerPatrick Willis said. “Culliver is a great kid, a great guy. I love having him on our team. He’s really helped our team be what we are.”
Coach Jim Harbaugh had a long talk with Culliver, and hopes his mistake will be another thing from which he can grow as a player. Culliver will now need to avoid letting the incident impact him, and build on the nine tackles and takeaway he has produced in the playoffs.
“He’s been a very valued member,” Harbaugh said. "He’s been a trusted agent and known friend to our team.”
source : sporting news