Many are wondering why 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan hasn’t received more attention for Coach of the Year. Recently, he’s gained some traction. While Patriots coach Mike Vrabel remains the favorite at -140, Shanahan’s odds have shifted to +180.
Shanahan has the 49ers on the verge of becoming the top team in the NFC. If they defeat Seattle, they will secure a bye week in the playoffs, with the chance to play for the Super Bowl in their own stadium. Remarkably, the 49ers achieved a 12-4 record despite facing numerous injuries. Star players like Nick Bosa, Fred Warner, and George Kittle have missed significant time, and quarterback Brock Purdy has dealt with turf toe.
One statistic to consider: the 49ers are one win away from an NFC-best record, showcasing the team’s resilience under Shanahan. The voting for Coach of the Year occurs after the regular season wraps up. If the 49ers finish strong while the Patriots don’t earn the top spot in the AFC, it could sway the voting in Shanahan’s favor.
However, a challenge for Shanahan is that this award often goes to coaches whose teams exceeded lower expectations. The 49ers were favorites in their division at the start of the season, making their journey even more notable given the obstacles they’ve faced. Experts suggest that overcoming such challenges should play a key role in the decision-making process for recognizing the top coach.
With many fans discussing Shanahan’s capabilities on social media, it’s clear that his leadership is becoming a talking point as the playoffs approach. Whether he wins the award or not, Shanahan’s ability to guide the 49ers through adversity has certainly made an impact this season.
For more insights into coaching styles and challenges faced during the season, you can check out this recent article on the [NFL Coaches Association](https://www.nflcoaches.com).
