As a Seattle Seahawks fan, I hate the San Francisco 49ers. However, I can also acknowledge that over the last few seasons, Kyle Shanahan has owned the Seahawks, as Seattle had not beaten the 49ers since the 2021 season until this year.
Because of my disdain for this team, I was one of the few who got to enjoy a classic "hate-watch" during this past February's Super Bowl between the 49ers and the Kansas City Chiefs, where for the second time, Shanahan's team squandered a ten-point second-half lead to Patrick Mahomes and company in the big game, resulting in the Chiefs' second straight championship.
What made this collapse so unforgivable for "The Faithful" was that when the 49ers won the coin toss prior to overtime, it seemed as if Shanahan was not familiar with or prepared for the new overtime rules for the playoffs. The 49ers opted to take the ball, which is usually the right move in overtime, but in this case, the 'smart' play is to play defense first, as you essentially get an extra down to play with, and you also know exactly what you need to win the game. It was a moment I will never forget, not only because of the chaotic nature of it but also because of how satisfying it was to watch one of the most brilliant football minds in the NFL flounder in such a pivotal situation.
Being a Seahawks fan, I've witnessed firsthand Shanahan's dominance as he has built up this roster, which made his error all the more striking. The 49ers have frequently a tough opponent because of their excellent defense, potent offensive weapons, and excellent coaching. But on that particular day, Shanahan's carelessness is likely was caused him his first Lombardi Trophy.
For a franchise that consistently acts like they’re a step ahead of the rest of the NFC West, watching them lose in that fashion was not only one of my favorite NFL moments of 2024, but very well could be my favorite sports moment of 2024. Here’s hoping we can look forward to many more in 2025!
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