The San Francisco 49ers came close to winning Super Bowl LVIII, but fell short for the second time against the Kansas City Chiefs.
The 49ers blew a double-digit lead against the Chiefs, but still had a chance to win in overtime.
San Francisco opted to control the football first and kicked a field goal, but the defense failed to stop Kansas City from scoring a touchdown and winning the championship.
The decision was ridiculed for the week as most said the 49ers should’ve gone second to utilize all four downs more effectively.
The debate raged on the entire week, though it wasn’t the only reason why San Francisco ended up losing.
Mike Sando of The Athletic laid out all the reasons why he believes the 49ers cost themselves the game.
“Williams 2 pen, McCaffrey fumble, Deebo blanketed in cvg, Kittle missed protection (?). Coaching wise, Shanahan discomfort playing 2M before half jumps out,” Sando said.
More evidence #49ers OT decision not where focus belongs
Focus belongs on, did your best players play their best?
Williams 2 pen, McCaffrey fumble, Deebo blanketed in cvg, Kittle missed protection (?).
Coaching wise, Shanahan discomfort playing 2M before half jumps out. https://t.co/CGoSeFXM8M
— Mike Sando (@SandoNFL) February 18, 2024
Sando believes that there is no mathematical advantage to going first or second in overtime, and instead highlighted the choices and play coverages that resulted in San Francisco’s demise.
Turnovers were arguably what did the 49ers in as the Christian McCaffrey fumble and special teams error allowed the Chiefs to earn momentum and turn the tides of the game.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan had a solid game plan in the first half, but his playcalling and conservative approach late in the game also deserve some criticism.
San Francisco should be considered a threat to win next year, though they’ll have to prove they can win at the highest level still.
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