For a two-time Super Bowl-winning coach, the week of the big game isn’t the important one.
Former Broncos head coach Mike Shanahan, who led Denver to victories in Super Bowls XXXII and XXXIII, joined Eric Goodman and Les Shapiro on Afternoon Drive on Mile High Sports AM 1340 Monday to share some insight on what Super Bowl week is like for the head coach, and what his advice would be to the current team.
“Right now we’ve had a week that is probably the most important; the week before the Super Bowl,” said Shanahan of what current head coach Gary Kubiak is dealing with psychologically. Shanahan stressed how difficult the week can be, balancing ticket requests and time with family and friends, all while focusing on the game.
“You want to get your game plan done as soon as possible,” added Shanahan. “That way when you’re in San Francisco your game plan is done.”
Shanahan’s first two wins as a head coach came with the Broncos and John Elway, but he also has a championship ring to show for his efforts as the 49ers offensive coordinator in Super Bowl XXIX. Shanahan claimed his tenure under Bill Walsh helped him understand how to win the big game, including the importance of eliminating distractions.
“Initially, it was hard for me to comprehend how they won four Super Bowls in ten years,” said Shanahan of his Super Bowl experience with San Francisco. “But when I was with the 49ers, I saw how they handled the pressure, it made sense.” Shanahan feels the high level of organization within the 49ers kept their players from distractions and helped propel them to victory.
One of Afternoon Drive’s other talking points was how this edition of the Broncos seems similar to one of Shanahan’s teams, and if he had any advice for them.
“One of the main keys is third down conversions,” added Shanahan. “Make sure that on third down you have about five or less yards to got, and that will help avoid sacks and turnovers by getting the ball out quick.” Shanahan also felt a physical performance would help the Broncos keep the Carolina Panthers from getting comfortable.
When asked if he had any Specific advice for quarterback Peyton Manning if he was the current head coach, Shanahan advised keeping it simple.
“I’d tell him what I told him the last two games,” he said. “You beat the Steelers and the Patriots, and both have real good offenses. The last thing you want to do is turn the ball over.”
The Broncos have won their past two games by holding onto the football and playing tough, physical defense. If they can execute again on Sunday, they may be bringing home their first title since Shanahan wore the headset.
Listen to Afternoon Drive’s full discussion with Shanahan in the podcast below…
Catch Afternoon Drive every weekday from 4-6p on Mile High Sports AM 1340 or stream live any time for the best local coverage of what’s new and what’s next in Colorado sports.
