Hugh T. Brooks

Mounting a stunning comeback in the fourth quarter, MVP quarterback Patrick Mahomes comes up clutch.

How else would the Kansas City Chiefs win Super Bowl LIV besides a thrilling comeback? After 50 years, the Chiefs are once again Super Bowl Champions, defeating the San Francisco 49ers 31-20 in Miami. 

After coming back from behind in both their previous playoff games this season, Kansas City was once again able to find a way to win with the odds against them. Three touchdowns late in the fourth quarter gave Kansas City the advantage, led by running-back Damien Williams’ two scores. 

Though the Chiefs ultimately won the game 31-20, it was an exciting game and a nail-biter for fans of both teams. At half time, it was tied 10-10 before San Francisco took a 20-10 lead in the third quarter. However, a 21-point fourth quarter secured a Kansas City Chiefs win in Super Bowl LIV. Coach Andy Reid and Quarterback Patrick Mahomes were able to work quickly and impressively to drive down the field under pressure. It was the first Super Bowl title as a head coach for Reid, who has coached in the NFL for 28 years. 

Mahomes was also named the Most Valuable Player of Super Bowl LIV. He notched 286 passing yards, completing 24 of his 36 throws. He also threw for two touchdowns and two interceptions, ultimately walking away with the Lombardi trophy in his hands. 

The San Francisco 49ers struggled to find answers on both offense and defense late in the game after initially forcing two interceptions and three punts. The offense was stalled in the fourth quarter, punting twice, turning the ball over on downs, and giving up the game as quarterback Jimmy Garopolo threw an interception on their last possession. 

The game capped off the NFL’s centennial season, marking 100 years of football in the United States. Though it is only the 54th Super Bowl, football has long been the center of American sports. Super Bowl LIV is estimated to have drawn around 100 million viewers, though ratings have slowly dropped over the past decade according to the International Business Times. Nonetheless, ‘Super Bowl Sunday’ continues to be a fun tradition for many who gather, party, and watch regardless of the teams playing.

The Kansas City Chiefs had another amazing season under coach Andy Reid, clinching the second seed in the AFC playoffs with a record of 12-4. They routed the Houston Texans and Tennessee Titans to win a spot in today’s game. The Chiefs are known for their explosive pass offense, led by 25-year-old quarterback Patrick Mahomes. They also boast one of the fastest wide-receivers in the league with Tyreek Hill, who might even try for an Olympic bid according to NBC Sports.

The San Francisco 49ers finished the regular season with a record of 13-3 under head coach Kyle Shanahan, clinching the top seed in the NFC playoffs. They continued to defeat the Minnesota Vikings and Green Bay Packers on their way to Super Bowl LIV. The Niners’ defense has been their best quality this season, led by rookie Nick Bosa, the second overall pick from Ohio State. However, an electric run offense powered by running backs Tevin Coleman and Raheem Mostert has helped them stay on top of many games. 

Another Super Bowl has come and gone. For 49er fans, there is always next year. For Chiefs fans, enjoy the glory.