Why the 49ers Were Pass Heavy During the Super Bowl’s Third Quarter.
yThe San Francisco 49ers faced criticism for their minimal utilization of the run game in the third quarter of the Super Bowl against the Kansas Cit Chiefs, and there are valid reasons behind this decision. Many errors were identified in the 49ers’ heartbreaking Super Bowl loss, with a specific focus on the critique of their pass-heavy strategy, particularly in the third quarter.
During that crucial quarter, Kyle Shanahan called for only one run play for Christian McCaffrey, resulting in three consecutive three-and-outs. In the entire game, quarterback Brock Purdy dropped back 38 times, while they ran the ball only 28 times. This statistical difference might suggest the 49ers were trailing, but they remained neck and neck or ahead throughout the game.
Despite the criticism directed at Shanahan for the heavy reliance on passing, the decision to emphasize the passing game after halftime was strategically sound. The Chiefs demonstrated formidable defense against the run, rendering the 49ers’ ground game ineffective, except for the first offensive series.
Kansas City intentionally pressured the 49ers to throw and be predictable, recognizing that the efficiency of the 49ers’ passing game often stems from their ability to throw from run formations. The Chiefs aimed to make defending the pass more challenging by preventing the 49ers from establishing a successful running attack.
In the first half, the Chiefs limited the 49ers to under 50 rushing yards, with just one carry gaining 10 or more yards. Penalties in the early stages further hindered the 49ers’ running game, pushing them out of optimal rushing situations.
Given these circumstances, Shanahan opted for a pass-heavy approach in the third quarter, intending to counter the Chiefs’ efforts to stifle the run. Despite the logical reasoning, the Chiefs maintained a strong defensive stance, leaving the 49ers without effective answers.
Shanahan’s attempt to deviate from an unsuccessful running game was a reasonable strategy, considering the ineffectiveness of running plays that resulted in minimal gains. Shanahan had to rely on quarterback Brock Purdy, a finalist for the MVP, to be the hero. However, the Chiefs, led by defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo, were well-prepared with a well-executed defensive game plan.
