49ers vs. Chiefs: A Historic Rivalry

The Early Years: Montana vs. Elway

The 49ers-Chiefs rivalry began in the 1980s, with Joe Montana and John Elway at the helm of their respective teams. The two quarterbacks were bitter rivals, and their games were always intense and closely contested.

In 1989, the 49ers defeated the Chiefs in the NFC Championship Game, sending Montana to his fourth Super Bowl.

The 1990s: Young vs. Aikman

In the 1990s, the rivalry continued with Steve Young and Troy Aikman as the starting quarterbacks. The two teams met in the NFC Championship Game three times in the decade, with the 49ers winning twice.

In 1994, the 49ers defeated the Chiefs in Super Bowl XXIX, giving Montana his fourth Super Bowl title.

The 2000s: Garcia vs. Green

In the 2000s, the rivalry cooled somewhat, as the 49ers and Chiefs were not as competitive as they had been in previous decades. However, the two teams still had some memorable games, including a 49ers win in the 2002 NFC Divisional Round.

In 2003, the Chiefs defeated the 49ers in the AFC Divisional Round.

The 2010s: Kaepernick vs. Smith

In the 2010s, the rivalry was rekindled with Colin Kaepernick and Alex Smith as the starting quarterbacks. The two teams met in the NFC Championship Game in 2012, with the 49ers winning and advancing to Super Bowl XLVII.

In 2013, the Chiefs defeated the 49ers in the AFC Divisional Round.

The 2020s: Garoppolo vs. Mahomes

In the 2020s, the rivalry continues with Jimmy Garoppolo and Patrick Mahomes as the starting quarterbacks. The two teams have met once in the playoffs, with the Chiefs winning in the 2020 AFC Championship Game.

The 49ers and Chiefs are two of the most storied franchises in NFL history, and their rivalry is one of the most intense and competitive in the league.