Kyle Shanahan may no longer be seen as a coach who can’t win the big game.
Brock Purdy can go from Mr. Negligible Value to Super Bowl champion status.
For Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid, a Super Bowl victory on Sunday would elevate the duo to a level reserved for the most accomplished quarterbacks and coaches.
Sunday night, when the Chiefs or 49ers hoist the Lombardi Trophy, the legacy of their key players could well be transformed.
“I never thought about the word legacy,” Shanahan said this week, “when asked about the impact this game would have on him. Twice, his team blew a cushion of at least 10 points in the last quarter at the Super Bowl.
“I still feel a little young [à 44 ans]. Legacy, I don’t think it’s on the minds of those who are experiencing something in the present moment. You’re just trying to win the game. »
Reid was in a similar situation to Shanahan before beating him to win his first Super Bowl four years ago in Miami.
Reid added another title last season against Philadelphia. He can join Bill Belichick (six), Chuck Noll (four), Bill Walsh and Joe Gibbs (three each) as the only coaches with at least three titles.
“As far as legacy goes, I don’t really think about it,” Reid said. We are so busy and getting ready for the game. This is where all your energy goes. »
Still, getting a third championship in five years – which would be a second in a row – would put Kansas City in the debate for the most memorable dynasties.
The only other teams to win three Super Bowls in five or fewer seasons are the 1970s Steelers, the 1990s Cowboys and the Patriots, who did it twice with Belichick and Tom Brady.
If he wins the ultimate game a third time, Mahomes would join an exclusive club with Tom Brady (seven titles), Joe Montana (four), Terry Bradshaw (four) and Troy Aikman (three).
Purdy could become the second youngest quarterback to win a Super Bowl.
He has had a meteoric rise since being the final pick in the 2022 draft.
His organization also saw two of the best quarterbacks in history, Montana and Steve Young.
“Those are obviously big shoes to fill. I’m not going to compare myself to them, commented Purdy. They set the standard for winning. »