Patrick Mahomes’ subtle reaction to 49ers’ controversial Super Bowl 2024 decision

Despite recent changes to the postseason overtime rules that give both teams the chance to retain the ball and score, the 49ers were only able to muster a field goal in their one and only attempt to score.

After that, Mahomes led the Chiefs to victory, 25–22, with a three-yard pass to wide receiver Mecole Hardman in the endzone, capping an organized touchdown drive.

Regarding the 49ers, a lot of talk preceded their offseason regarding the contentious overtime decision. Players from San Francisco even claimed they were not aware that both teams had at least one extra-minute opportunity.

“You know what? I didn’t even realize the playoff rules were different in overtime,” 49ers full back Kyle Juszczyk told reporters postgame, according to ESPN. “I assume you just want the ball to score a touchdown and win. I guess that’s not the case. I don’t totally know the strategy there. We hadn’t talked about it, no.”

Arik Armstead, a defensive lineman, informed the reporters that he was unaware of the regulations until he saw them shown on the scoreboard at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.

“It was surprising to me because I was unaware of the new playoff overtime rule,” Armstead remarked.

Following a 2021 divisional round game between the Chiefs and Bills, where Kansas City won the overtime coin toss and scored, Buffalo’s offense was never allowed to touch the ball again, the overtime rules were amended.