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.
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.
