No handshake, no problem?
There was no postgame handshake between Kyle Shanahan and Andy Reid after the Chiefs triumphed over the 49ers in Super Bowl LVIII, which caught the attention of NFL fans. However, this absence wasn’t a result of any ill will between the coaches.
In fact, Shanahan and Reid had agreed in advance to forego the traditional handshake at midfield. Shanahan clarified that they had discussed this decision earlier in the week, recognizing the challenge of navigating through the postgame chaos to reach each other.
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“We talked on Monday. When we played each other last time, it took about 25 minutes to shake his hand,” Shanahan said, via CBS Sports. “So, we both talked on Monday that regardless of who won, I mean I love Andy, I’m tight with Andy, but we talked both of us are going to do that because it’s too hard to get to each other after these Super Bowls.”
Their prearranged agreement dispels any notions of animosity between Shanahan and Reid. It underscores the mutual respect they share, as emphasized by Reid’s praise for Shanahan’s coaching decisions, including the controversial coin toss.
Reid expressed confidence in Shanahan’s strategic acumen, reaffirming his respect for the 49ers coach. This mutual admiration suggests a cordial relationship between the two, further dispelling any speculation of tension.
Looking ahead, with both coaches demonstrating mutual respect and admiration, it wouldn’t be surprising to see them face off again in a future Super Bowl.
