Vic Fangio's game plan for Mahomes included no blitzes. The plan was brilliant, and has been done before. [View all]
It looked to me that the Eagles pass rush was more about containing Mahomes, initially, than going for the immediate sack. The 49ers utilized a similar approach to beat the Eagles in 2023, who at the time were looking unstoppable.
The idea is that the front defensive four encircles the QB in a coordinated, unselfish effort, basically creating a pocket around the pocket, and closes in from all sides. The QB has little avenue for roll-out or escape. He has to keep one eye on the defense while checking off his options.
Mahomes was harassed into hurried throws, bad throws, and INTs. It helped also (IMO) that 1) Mahomes held onto the ball too long in many instances, and 2) downfield coverage was really, really good. I was also surprised Reid didn't counter with a "dink and dunk" attack. Maybe he tried and I just missed it.
Prior to the Super Bowl, Mahomes was 8-0 against Fangio's NFL defenses.* Credit Philly's front office for giving Fangio players who can execute. MVP honors should have gone to the entire Philadelphia defense.
* (paywall): https://www.sfchronicle.com/sports/article/eagles-deny-the-chiefs-a-super-bowl-three-peat-20157823.php
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