NFL Auctioning Relics from Chiefs' Super Bowl Victory: Kickoff Ball and Game Coin

The NFL is auctioning unique memorabilia from the Chiefs' Super Bowl LVIII win, including the opening kickoff ball and the coin used for the game and overtime. The coin toss before overtime proved superfluous, with the Chiefs winning the opening toss and the 49ers winning the flip ahead of overtime, but the second coin toss was still necessary for protocol. NFL Films' mic'd-up video captures the Chiefs', 49ers', and game officials' conversations before the coin toss, revealing the 49ers' desire for the ball and the Chiefs' preference for kicking off. This breakdown underscores the newfound drama of the overtime rule, which allowed the Chiefs to secure their victory by choosing to receive the ball.

NFL Auctions Relics from Chiefs' Super Bowl Victory: Opening Kickoff Ball and Game Coin

The National Football League (NFL) is offering a unique opportunity for fans and collectors to acquire exclusive artifacts from the Kansas City Chiefs' thrilling overtime triumph over the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl LVIII. Two iconic items from the historic contest are up for auction:

Opening Kickoff Football

The football used for the opening kickoff of Super Bowl LVIII is now available for bid. This is a highly sought-after relic, as it represents the commencement of one of the most memorable games in NFL history. Harrison Butker, the Chiefs' kicker, executed a flawless kick that sailed into the end zone for a touchback.

Bidding for the opening kickoff football will close on February 28th, 2024. Interested parties can access the auction page here.

Coin Used for Coin Toss

The coin used before the game and ahead of overtime is also up for grabs. The 49ers called the coin toss on both occasions due to their designated status as the visiting team. In the opening toss, the Chiefs emerged victorious, while the 49ers won the flip ahead of overtime.

Intriguingly, the second coin toss proved to be unnecessary, as the Chiefs ultimately emerged victorious in overtime without possessing the ball.

Pre-Overtime Coin Toss Insights

NFL Films has released an intriguing video featuring the microphone audio from the pre-overtime coin toss. The footage provides a glimpse into the strategies and perspectives of the Chiefs, 49ers, and game officials.

As the officials report to referee Bill Vinovich before the toss, the official on the 49ers' sideline communicates their desire for the ball if they win. In contrast, the official on the Chiefs' sideline expresses their preference for kicking off if they emerge victorious.

Vinovich wryly observed, "He wants the ball," referring to 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan, "so he's gonna get it either way." This exchange highlights the intricate decision-making involved at this crucial juncture.

Chiefs' Surprise at 49ers' Overtime Decision

The NFL Films video also captures Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes expressing surprise at the 49ers' decision to take the ball in overtime. This revelation further underscores the unexpected nature of the Chiefs' overtime strategy.

A Memorable Super Bowl Overtime

The overtime period in Super Bowl LVIII introduced a new level of drama and intrigue to the NFL's most prestigious game. This auction presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a piece of history from this unforgettable contest.

As the festive spirit of Christmas reminds us, it is often more fulfilling to give than to receive. In the case of Super Bowl LVIII overtime, the Chiefs demonstrated that sometimes, the ultimate success lies in the act of giving up the ball.