11 February 2024 , 22:37
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Patrick Mahomes was keen to get a headstart on preparing for the Super Bowl against the San Francisco 49ers. He was one of the first players on the field for warmups, three hours before kickoff.
While Mahomes was getting ready, his opponents were nowhere to be seen. It seemed like he was trying to get a head start on the 49ers.
Mahomes, a two-time Super Bowl MVP, took time to take in his surroundings. When the Kansas City Chiefs eventually made their way back out an hour before kickoff for final warmups, they were met with some boos as the 49ers fans made themselves heard.
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The match-up between Mahomes and Brock Purdy, the 49ers' quarterback, has been much talked about in the buildup. One is considered the most naturally talented thrower in the league, the other a surprise package after being an unheralded prospect coming out of the NFL Draft.
Despite the competition, both players have shown respect for each other. When the match-up was confirmed, Purdy said: "It's gonna be sweet," and "Very cool. Been watching that guy since I was in high school, really."
"The way he's taken over the NFL, it's been fun to watch. To have an opportunity to go up against him for a Super Bowl? Doesn't get any better than that. Does it?"
Brock Purdy and the San Francisco 49ers stand between Mahomes and another Super Bowl ring (Getty Images)Mahomes said at Super Bowl Opening Night six days before the big game: "I've seen Brock play since college, I knew how good he was."
"I watched him play - I watch the Big 12 a lot so I watched him play a ton. He was a winner and he made plays happen all through his college career. Usually when you can make it happen in college, no matter what your surroundings are, and turn around a program like he did at Iowa State, you're going to make it happen when you get your opportunity in the NFL."
"So I wasn't very surprised he's had the success that he's had because he's a winner and he's a guy that goes out there and competes, and I've always said, more than a football player, you've got to be someone who competes, and he's always been one of those guys."