The Super Bowl is the biggest stage in football, where players have the opportunity to etch their names into history with iconic moments. The Kansas City Chiefs and the San Francisco 49ers, two storied franchises, have had their fair share of memorable plays and performances in the Super Bowl. As the Chiefs make their sixth Super Bowl appearance and the 49ers their seventh, let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of these iconic moments.
In Super Bowl LIV, DeForest Buckner showcased his skills as a linebacker for the 49ers. Despite the loss, Buckner hounded Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, recording 1.5 sacks, three hits on the QB, and six tackles. It was a performance that demonstrated his dominance on the field.
Jan Stenerud, a Hall of Fame kicker, left his mark on Super Bowl IV for the Chiefs. Stenerud scored the first nine points of the game, including a 48-yard field goal that surprised the Minnesota Vikings. His accuracy and skill were crucial in securing the Chiefs’ victory.
Jerry Rice, widely regarded as one of the greatest wide receivers in NFL history, delivered an unforgettable performance in Super Bowl XXIII. In his Super Bowl debut, Rice set the record for most receiving yards in the Big Game with 215 yards on 11 targets. He also scored a touchdown and even added a rushing play, earning him the Super Bowl MVP honors.
Len Dawson, the Chiefs’ quarterback, led his team to victory in Super Bowl IV. While he threw for more yards in Super Bowl I, it was in Super Bowl IV that he guided the Chiefs to their first Super Bowl win. Dawson completed 12 of 17 passes for 142 yards and a touchdown, earning him the MVP honors. His performance paved the way for future Chiefs quarterbacks, including the current star Patrick Mahomes.
Nick Bolton, a linebacker for the Chiefs, made a significant impact in last year’s Super Bowl. With his team trailing by a touchdown, Bolton returned a fumble for a 36-yard score. He also recorded nine tackles in the Chiefs’ thrilling 38-35 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles.
Joe Montana, known for his calmness under pressure, showcased his skills in Super Bowl XXIII. Montana led the 49ers on a game-winning 92-yard drive, all while spotting actor John Candy in the end zone and pointing it out during the huddle. His composure and ability to deliver in clutch moments solidified his status as one of the all-time greats.
Mike Garrett’s Super Bowl VI touchdown run is often considered one of the most iconic plays in Super Bowl history. The Kansas City Chiefs’ head coach, Hank Stram, called for the 65 toss power trap, and Garrett ran the ball in for a five-yard touchdown. Garrett’s performance, including 11 carries for 39 yards and that touchdown, contributed to the Chiefs’ success in that game.
Steve Young emerged from Joe Montana’s shadow in Super Bowl XXIX and had a game for the ages. The left-handed quarterback threw for 325 yards and a record-breaking six touchdowns, earning him the Super Bowl MVP honors. Young surpassed his predecessor, Joe Montana, in the record books with this remarkable performance.
Lastly, we cannot forget about Patrick Mahomes, the current face of the Kansas City Chiefs. Mahomes has already made his mark in Super Bowl history with his incredible performances in Super Bowls LIV, LV, and LVI. From calling the play “Jet Chip Wasp” on a crucial down to completing insane passes and showcasing his athleticism with impressive runs, Mahomes has provided countless highlight-worthy moments in the big game.
As the Kansas City Chiefs and the San Francisco 49ers prepare for their Super Bowl showdown, it’s worth reflecting on the iconic moments that players from both teams have delivered over the years. From legendary quarterbacks to dominant defensive performances, these moments have shaped the history of the game and will forever be etched in our memories.
