Super Bowl LVIII Preview: Chiefs vs. 49ers Position-by-Position Analysis

Breaking down Super Bowl LVIII between the Kansas City Chiefs and San Francisco 49ers is the equivalent of splitting hairs — hence why San Francisco is only a two-point favorite just days away from kick-off.

Two teams burgeoning with All-Pro and even generational talent, amNewYork attempts to parse through each position heading into the big game in Vegas to help you decipher who might have the edge on Super Bowl Sunday.

Super Bowl LVIII position-by-position breakdown

Quarterback: Chiefs

This might be the easiest position to pick, which is in no way a slight to San Francisco quarterback Brock Purdy. He’s had a brilliant season that’s worthy of MVP consideration but has left plenty to be desired in the playoffs (61.4%, 519 yards, two touchdowns, one interception).

But it’s no contest against Patrick Mahomes, who is still penning the opening chapters of what could very well be one of the greatest careers in NFL history. Appearing in his fourth Super Bowl in six years, the Kansas City talisman has completed 68% of his passes for 718 yards, four touchdowns, and zero interceptions this postseason.

Running back: 49ers

It’s important to show some love to a local product in Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco, who went to Rutgers. He rushed for 254 yards and three touchdowns in the playoff amidst his continued emergence as one of the top rushers in football.

Unfortunately for him, his opposite number is one of the game’s most explosive playmakers in Christian McCaffrey, who led the NFL in scrimmage yards this season. In just two playoff games, he has 188 yards and four touchdowns — an unstoppable force in San Francisco’s backfield.

Wide receiver: 49ers

Kansas City’s wide receiver problems have been well-documented this season having led the league with 44 drops — further testament to just how good Mahomes is.

Purdy, however, has a significant edge in this department, which helps equalize the offensive side of the ball. The two-headed attack of Deebo Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk make this a no-brainer.

Tight end: Chiefs

San Francisco tight end George Kittle had the better regular season. He was also named a first-team All-Pro, which normally would give the 49ers the edge.

The Chiefs, however, have one of the greatest tight ends in NFL history who has rediscovered his game after a down regular season. He went off in the AFC Championship Game against the Baltimore Ravens, posting 11 catches for 116 yards and a touchdown. He also had two scores in the Divisional Round against the Buffalo Bills.

Offensive line: Chiefs

Had this matchup happened a few weeks ago, we probably would have given the edge to the 49ers. However, their line has been problematic at times down the stretch and into the postseason.

Kansas City’s O-line has allowed just two sacks in three playoff games, both coming against a vaunted Baltimore Ravens defense which, in the scheme of things, is a win in itself. Both lines will have their work cut out for them, however, which makes this a pick ’em sort of decision.

Defensive line: 49ers

There aren’t many more imposing defensive lines than what San Francisco boasts.

Nick Bosa is one of the most feared pass-rushers in the game, complemented by Arik Armstead and Javon Hargrave — the trio combining for 22.5 sacks this season. Throw in Chase Young, who has struggled since being acquired from the Washington Commanders but still has game-breaking capabilities, and the Niners have as good a front as Mahomes will ever face.

Linebackers: 49ers

There aren’t many better linebackers in football than San Francisco’s Fred Warner, which gives his side the edge here. He has 132 combined tackles with four forced fumbles and four interceptions this season.

His partner, Dre Greenlaw, has been solid as well with 120 tackles and five tackles for loss.