RE: OUCH!
That is a weak spot on the savage design... It should have some cross bracing up front, or a metal base for the electronics. That is a long distance from the engine/trans plate to the front diff assy w/o strong support.
Not the first time I have seen that on a Savage.
When you rebuild, check on ebay... Someone sells cross braces for that vulnerable part of the design.
Sorry mang!