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In the 1979 NFL Draft, the San Francisco 49ers picked Montana in the third round with the 82nd overall pick. However, his rookie season saw him as a backup to Steve DeBerg. The limited playtime raised doubts about his potential to handle the NFL, but Montana soon proved his critics wrong.
In 1980, an opportunity arose that transformed the 49ers' fortunes. After a dismal start to the season, Walsh made the bold decision to switch to Montana during a game against the winless New Orleans Saints. In what became known as one of the biggest regular-season rallies in NFL history, Montana led the 49ers back from a 35-7 halftime deficit to secure a 38-35 victory, marking the dawn of a dynasty.