2024: Wisconsin Connections Abound in Super Bowl LVIII
As the stage is set for Super Bowl LVIII, the grand finale of the 2023 NFL season, the Kansas City Chiefs and San Francisco 49ers prepare for a captivating clash for the Vince Lombardi Trophy. While the Green Bay Packers and Detroit Lions suffered disappointing losses in the NFC Championship game, several Wisconsin connections will be present in Las Vegas on February 11th, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the highly anticipated matchup.
Andy Reid: The Packers’ Coaching Legacy
Andy Reid, the current head coach of the Kansas City Chiefs, has a deep-rooted history with the Green Bay Packers. From 1992 to 1998, he served as an assistant offensive line and tight ends coach, quarterbacks coach, and assistant head coach, working closely with legendary quarterback Brett Favre. Reid’s tenure in Green Bay helped shape his coaching philosophy and laid the foundation for his successful career. After leaving the Packers, he became the head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles, leading them to a Super Bowl victory in 2004. In 2013, he took over the reins of the Chiefs and has since transformed them into a perennial contender, reaching four Super Bowls and winning two. Reid’s presence in Super Bowl LVIII marks a full-circle moment, connecting his past with the Packers to his current success with the Chiefs.
Leo Chenal: From Wisconsin Standout to Super Bowl Contender
Leo Chenal, a native of Grantsburg, Wisconsin, and a standout linebacker at the University of Wisconsin, has quickly made a name for himself in the NFL. As a rookie last year, he recorded a sack and six tackles in the Super Bowl, showcasing his potential as a defensive force. This season, he made 10 starts in the regular season, contributing three sacks, eight tackles for loss, and a total of 65 tackles. Chenal’s impressive performance earned him two playoff starts in three appearances, where he tallied nine tackles. His presence in Super Bowl LVIII represents the growing talent pipeline from Wisconsin to the NFL.
Marquez Valdes-Scantling: A Home-Run Threat with a Packers Past
Marquez Valdes-Scantling, affectionately known as MVS, spent four seasons with the Green Bay Packers, establishing himself as a home-run threat receiver. Known for his big-play ability, MVS signed with the Chiefs before the 2022 season and has continued to make an impact. In last year’s AFC Championship game, he caught six passes for 116 yards against the Bengals, helping the Chiefs reach the Super Bowl. While his output was more modest in this year’s AFC Championship game, with two catches for 38 yards, his 32-yard reception on the final drive essentially sealed the victory for the Chiefs. MVS’s presence adds another Wisconsin connection to the Super Bowl LVIII stage.
Mike Caliendo: From Brookfield East to the NFL
Mike Caliendo, a Brookfield East alumnus, has carved out a role for himself on the Kansas City Chiefs roster. Appearing in eight regular season games and all three playoff games this year, Caliendo has seen significant playing time on special teams and as a backup offensive lineman. With standout guard Joe Thuney sidelined by injury in the AFC Championship game, Caliendo was bumped up the depth chart, though he ultimately played only three snaps on special teams. Nonetheless, his presence on the Chiefs’ roster represents another Wisconsin connection in the Super Bowl.
Mike Pennel: A Journeyman Defensive Lineman with Super Bowl Experience
Mike Pennel, a defensive tackle who played for the Green Bay Packers from 2014 to 2016, has found continued success in the NFL. After his stint with the Packers, he played for the Atlanta Falcons, Chicago Bears, and Kansas City Chiefs. While he spent most of this season on the Chiefs’ practice squad, Pennel saw action in three regular season games and both playoff games, contributing six tackles. His presence in Super Bowl LVIII marks his third Super Bowl appearance, adding to his experience on the biggest stage in football.
Johnny Holland: A Packers Hall of Famer and Coaching Veteran
Johnny Holland, a seven-season veteran with the Green Bay Packers, earned a spot in the Packers Hall of Fame in 2001 for his outstanding contributions as a linebacker. Today, he serves as the San Francisco 49ers linebackers coach, bringing his wealth of experience and knowledge to the team. Holland’s coaching career began with the Packers, where he held various roles, including defensive quality control coach, special teams coach, and linebackers coach. His presence in Super Bowl LVIII represents the enduring legacy of the Packers’ coaching tradition.
Oren Burks: A Former Packer Now Thriving in San Francisco
Oren Burks, a former Packers linebacker, is in his second season with the 49ers, contributing on special teams and defense. He has recorded one sack, one interception, and a career-best 46 tackles this season. Burks’ familiarity with the Packers adds an interesting dynamic to the Super Bowl matchup, as he will face his former team on the grandest stage.
Taybor Pepper: A Long Snapper with 49ers Ties
Taybor Pepper, a long snapper who appeared in four games for the Green Bay Packers in 2017, has found a home with the San Francisco 49ers since 2020. He has played in all 17 games for the past three seasons, providing stability and consistency to the 49ers’ special teams unit. Pepper’s presence in Super Bowl LVIII adds another Wisconsin connection to the 49ers’ roster.
George Kittle: A Wisconsin Native with Star Power
While George Kittle moved to Iowa at a young age, he was born in Madison, Wisconsin, and maintains a connection to the state. His parents had to navigate through Badgers football game-day traffic to reach the hospital on the day of his birth, and he grew up with a stuffed Bucky Badger. Kittle has become a star tight end for the 49ers, earning Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors. His presence in Super Bowl LVIII adds a touch of Wisconsin pride to the 49ers’ lineup.
The Sliding Door of Brandon Aiyuk: A Missed Opportunity for the Packers?
Brandon Aiyuk, a second-team All-Pro receiver, has had an outstanding season with the 49ers, amassing 1,342 receiving yards and seven touchdowns. His incredible catch off a defender’s facemask in the NFC Championship game and subsequent touchdown catch further solidified his status as a rising star. Interestingly, there were reports in 2020 that the Packers were considering drafting Aiyuk in the NFL draft. The 49ers, nervous about the possibility of the Packers selecting him, traded up to the 25th pick to secure his services. With Aiyuk off the board, the Packers traded up to the 26th pick and selected Jordan Love. This sliding door moment adds an intriguing layer to the Super Bowl LVIII matchup, as it raises questions about what could have been if the Packers had drafted Aiyuk instead of Love.
Conclusion: A Celebration of Wisconsin’s Football Legacy
Super Bowl LVIII promises to be a memorable event, not only for the Kansas City Chiefs and San Francisco 49ers but also for the state of Wisconsin. The presence of numerous Wisconsin connections on both teams adds an extra layer of excitement and intrigue to the matchup. From Andy Reid’s coaching legacy to the contributions of players like Leo Chenal, Marquez Valdes-Scantling, and George Kittle, Super Bowl LVIII will showcase the depth and talent of Wisconsin football.