The San Francisco 49ers lost to the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl 58, a rematch from four seasons ago. This game marked only the second time in history that the Super Bowl went into overtime, with the overtime rules having changed since the first overtime game in Super Bowl 51. Previously, the first team to score a touchdown won, even if they won the coin toss. Now, the team that scores a touchdown must kickoff to the other team, giving them a chance to score. Despite the difference in rules, there was one major similarity between both Super Bowls: Kyle Shanahan. The game ended in a tie at 19-19, with the Chiefs scoring to level the game with just three seconds left. The 49ers won the overtime coin toss, but only managed a field goal, scored by Jake Moody, on their only possession, resulting in a final score of 22-19.
On their only possession in overtime, the Chiefs outdid themselves. Mahomes led Kansas City on a 75-yard drive in 13 plays, culminating in a three-yard touchdown pass to Mecole Hardman, securing their second consecutive Super Bowl win and third overall in five years, officially cementing their dynasty. However, the 49ers were once again left without a championship.
Compared to their previous Super Bowl encounter in 54, it was harder to pinpoint blame on the 49ers this time around as they played exceptionally well. Nonetheless, the question remains: who is to blame for their loss to the Chiefs in Super Bowl 58?
One pivotal moment was Darrell Luter Jr.’s involvement in Ray-Ray McCloud’s muffed punt late in the third quarter. Despite the 49ers’ efforts to stop the Chiefs, Kansas City was forced to punt with under three minutes left in the third quarter, trailing 10-6. McCloud muffed the punt after it hit Luter Jr., giving the Chiefs possession on their own 16. One play later, Mahomes found Marquez Valdes-Scantling for a touchdown, giving the Chiefs their first lead of the game and shifting momentum in their favor. The Chiefs outscored the 49ers 10-0 in the third quarter.
Mahomes showcased his fourth-quarter comeback abilities once again, leading the Chiefs on two scoring drives in regulation that tied the game and ultimately won it in overtime. Although the 49ers defense could not stop him, the blame should be placed on Mahomes himself, who is nearly unstoppable in these situations.
Another point of contention was Kyle Shanahan’s lack of use of Christian McCaffrey in the third quarter. Despite wanting to reach 30 carries for his offense, the 49ers finished with 31 carries for 110 yards. McCaffrey had been a significant part of the 49ers offense all season, with nine carries for 33 yards and five receptions for 47 yards and the only touchdown of the game at that point. After Mahomes’ interception to start the third quarter, the 49ers missed an opportunity to extend their lead, going three-and-out without giving McCaffrey a single carry or target. By the end of the third quarter, McCaffrey had only two more carries for five yards and one more reception for seven yards. Shanahan eventually realized McCaffrey’s importance in overtime, but it was too late by then.
