The further 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy advances in the playoffs, the more the following scenario unfolds: fans across the country, ruminating on couches and barstools, wonder whether Purdy would be the first rookie quarterback to take his team to the Super Bowl.
Purdy, already one of just nine rookies ever to win a postseason game, would indeed be the first rookie quarterback to win a conference title in the Super Bowl era.
Here's a look at the eight previous rookie quarterbacks to win at least one playoff game.
Pat Haden, Rams, 1976
Like Purdy, Haden was pressed into service by injuries to the Rams' top two quarterbacks, and led his team to the NFC championship.