Brandon Aiyuk Credits a Ladybug for Wild Game-Changing Catch in 49ers’ NFC Championship Win

The Detroit Lions looked destined for a Super Bowl at several stages throughout the NFC Championship Game but ultimately lost to San Francisco 34-31 in the NFC Championship Game.

While Campbell's decisions to go neglect two field goal tries in favor of going for it on fourth down -- and failing on both occasions -- affected the outcome, 49ers receiver Brandon Aiyuk made a game-changing play of his own. His explanation for why it happened postgame was as unique as the play itself.

"Before the game, a ladybug landed on my shoe and y'all know what that means," Aiyuk told Erin Andrews, crediting the creature for the catch.

"That's all I can say, 'cause I don't know. I don't know. Just great luck, God was with us today. Great win, bang bang Niner gang."

With San Francisco trailing 24-10 with 6:29 remaining in the third quarter, quarterback Brock Purdy launched a deep ball in Aiyuk's direction, but it was almost picked off by Lions corner Kindle Vildor.

Except that's not what happened. Instead, the ball hit Vildor's hand and then facemask before Aiyuk was able to dive and collect the ball at the Detroit four-yard line.

Three plays after the 51-yard gain, Aiyuk scored a touchdown to bring San Francisco within one score. The 49ers would then add 18 unanswered points to secure a 34-24 lead with just over three minutes remaining.

Detroit added a late touchdown but failed to recover an onside kick within the final minute of the game. The win sets up a rematch with the Kansas City Chiefs, who beat the Niners in Super Bowl LIV four years ago.