100 Years of the NFL: 1989 49ers
Prior to the 1980's, the San Francisco 49ers struggled to reach the postseason consistently during the first 35 years of their franchise's history with only five playoff appearances (1949, 1957, 1970-1972).
But, after signing future Hall of Fame head coach Bill Walsh and drafting future Hall of Fame quarterback Joe Montana in 1979, the 49ers began to build the foundations for a championship team. After finishing with a 6-10 record in 1980, the 49ers shocked the NFL with a 13-3 record in 1981 and won their first NFL championship in Super Bowl XVI.
After winning Super Bowl XIX three years later, Bill Walsh and the 49ers management continued to add Pro Bowl/All-Pro/Hall of Fame talent over the next four years by drafting wide receiver Jerry Rice, defensive end Charles Haley, trading for quarterback Steve Young, and many other offseason moves to join with Joe Montana as well as future Hall of Fame defensive back Ronnie Lott.
With another Super Bowl championship in 1988, the 49ers looked to cap off their dynasty with huge expectations in 1989 despite Bill Walsh announcing his retirement following Super Bowl XXIII. As former defensive coordinator George Seifert took over head coaching duties, the 49ers dominated the NFL in 1989 with a 14-2 record and a MVP season for Joe Montana while bringing home their fourth Super Bowl in nine years.
Relive the story of the 49ers dynasty during the 1980's with interviews from Bill Walsh, Ronnie Lott, Jerry Rice, and many others!