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Shanahan Explains Unusual Decision to Receive Kickoff, Citing Wind in 49ers’ Win at Browns

He said the choice was made pregame to control fourth‑quarter field direction.

Overview

  • Kyle Shanahan said the 49ers elected to take the opening kick after winning the coin toss to guarantee a fourth‑quarter tailwind.
  • He described considering a conservative end‑of‑half plan before a key Brock Purdy completion convinced him to attack into the wind before halftime.
  • Reported conditions were roughly 20 mph winds with gusts of 35 mph or higher, which Shanahan cited as the sole factor in the coin‑toss strategy.
  • San Francisco pulled away for a 26–8 victory, and reporters noted the late wind advantage proved largely unnecessary given the margin.
  • With two home games and a dome trip up next, outlets suggest the tactic is unlikely soon but could surface in a potential postseason road game at traditionally windy sites such as Green Bay, Philadelphia or Chicago.