April 29, 2024

Photo: Tiffany & Co.

I think it’s fair to say that this NFL season was a unique one to say the least. We only have one more game to go through to get to the offseason, but what’s the rush? Here is my Super Bowl preview and the keys to the win.

Kansas City Chiefs

Defense needs to stop the run

  • The San Francisco 49ers have a run game that has been on fire for the last few weeks and they have been virtually unstoppable, especially with Raheem Mostert as the lead Running Back.
  • The Chiefs have to stop the run at all costs in order to have a chance at beating the 49ers.

Make Jimmy Garoppolo play Quarterback

  • The 49ers passing game emphasizes on getting the ball to the playmakers and get yards after catching the ball (YAC). This makes Jimmy G only having to throw quick passes to his receivers.
  • The Chiefs have to shut down the quick passing game and make Jimmy G throw the ball deep.

Spread the 49ers defense thin

  • Attack the middle of the field with quick passes with a variety of intermediate and deep passes to keep the 49ers defense thin and on their heels.
  • In the spread formation, this will also allow Patrick Mahomes to scramble out of the pocket if things break down with no one open.
Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes. Photo: Jeffrey Beall

X-Factor: Let Mahomes be himself and let him loose…as usual

San Francisco 49ers

Limit the Big Plays

  • The Chiefs offense can strike on any and every drive they can put together. The 49ers have to limit the Chiefs of putting together those kinds of drives.
  • Take away Mahomes’ favorite weapons and have a spy on him as he can use his legs to make plays as well.

Run the Ball; Keep them Guessing

  • Stay red hot on the ground game, but mix in some short Play Action and Read Option plays.
  • In the case for San Francisco, passing the ball will hopefully keep the Kansas City defense from loading the box with 8 defenders or more.
49ers QB Jimmy Garoppolo. Photo: Casey McNeil

Jimmy G needs to be ready to let loose and throw deep

  • More than likely, this game is going to come down to Garoppolo having to make plays on his own.
  • He needs to play QB and not be afraid to take chances.

X-Factor: If you get a lead against the Chiefs, HANG ON AND DON’T LET GO