Chiefs Running it Back With DT Mike Pennel is a Great Excuse to Re-Watch Super Bowl LIV Yet Again
By Sam Dunn
Mike Pennel only appeared in eight regular season games for the Kansas City Chiefs, and didn't start a single one. So, why should KC fans still stand up and cheer now that the big defensive tackle has reportedly re-signed with the team on a one-year deal? Because of how terrific he was in the Chiefs single biggest win in 50 years.
Veteran DT Mike Pennel is re-signing with the #Chiefs on a one-year deal, source said. Had other offers, but wanted to return to the team he helped win a Super Bowl last month with his INT-causing hit on Jimmy Garoppolo.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 25, 2020
Remember Bashaud Breeland's interception off Jimmy Garoppolo in the second quarter of Super Bowl LIV?
Big Mike was the one who smashed the 49ers QB as he released the ball, leading directly to the key takeaway.
Jimmy Garoppolo is VERY LUCKY this wasn't a pick-6.
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) February 3, 2020
This is exactly what it seemed the #49ers were afraid of ever since Jimmy Garoppolo threw that INT in the Divisional round against the #Vikings pic.twitter.com/Dyh9HFITzZ
This doesn't even mention the fact that Pennel, who notably made his only two starts of the season during the playoffs, was also part of the interior unit that held NFL rushing leader Derrick Henry to a paltry 69 yards in the AFC Championship.
All told, this is a man that knows how special it is to play at Arrowhead Stadium. To don that famous KC uniform. To win on the biggest stage. A one-year contract is rarely a true blunder; a one-year contract for a guy who shows up when it matters most is just about perfect.