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There are a few reasons why 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan made an unreasonable decision to receive the ball in overtime.
The San Francisco 49ers faced a challenging 25-22 overtime defeat against the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday, marking the second time in the Kyle Shanahan era that the former lost to the latter in a crucial match, leaving empty-handed.
This Super Bowl saw the implementation of revised playoff overtime rules for the second year, with the 49ers and Chiefs tied at 19 each at the end of regulation after a last-second, game-tying field goal by the Chiefs. Despite winning the coin toss and opting to receive the ball first, which initially seemed to preserve their defense, the 49ers ultimately faltered.
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San Francisco managed to drive into the red zone but encountered a crucial blocking error on 3rd & 4 at the Kansas City 9-yard line, resulting in a field goal instead of a touchdown. This allowed the Chiefs to secure a touchdown on their subsequent possession, clinching the victory and repeating as back-to-back champions.
Coach Shanahan’s decision to receive the ball was based on wanting his team to have the third possession, believing it would give them an advantage in a sudden-death scenario.
However, this strategy was flawed as it relied on the assumption that the Chiefs would follow a specific game plan. In reality, Kansas City had prepared to aggressively pursue victory, aiming for a two-point conversion if necessary.
Despite the legitimate argument for taking the ball first, the flaw in Shanahan’s plan became apparent when the Chiefs, known for their aggressive playstyle, chose a different approach. Ultimately, the decision backfired, leading to a disappointing defeat for the 49ers and prompting Shanahan to reflect on his strategy during the offseason.