CNN/SI - 1999 Super Bowl XXXIII - Teams taking different tacks on Super Bowl planning

To cram or not to cram

Teams taking different tacks on Super Bowl planning

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Posted: Sunday January 24, 1999 03:44 PM

Ready and waiting: Reeves isn't going to star implementing his game plan until Tuesday AP

MIAMI (CNN/SI) -- Proper planning is essential for both teams leading up to Super Bowl XXXIII, and those plans began to take shape within hours of the championship games last week.

Mike Shanahan has already implemented his entire game plan for the Super Bowl and will tinker with it throughout the week. Dan Reeves, meanwhile, will formulate his plan right up until the Falcons' final meeting on Saturday night.

It's two different ideas, but a singular goal.

"Once we get down there, all we have to do is just fine-tune our game plan," said Broncos tailback Terrell Davis.

Lofton's Analysis

As long as you communicate with your team, it's OK to ease into a game plan. The Broncos put in their entire plan last week, and they'll fine-tune a little bit. They know, being the defending champions, there are probably more distractions for them.

Dan Reeves wants to make next week a "business as usual" week. Business as usual? Your wife and kids are in the same hotel room. You've got three little kids running around, changing the channels while you're trying to study your plays. It's not the same. I like putting it in early and fine-tuning it later, instead of lumping it on the guys. -- James Lofton

"We really get a head start on what's going on. I think last year, what really helped us out was getting everything out of the way up here, and then going down to San Diego and focusing on practicing and watching film, just fine-tuning things."

The Falcons are easing in their plans over both weeks, building a crescendo that Falcons coaches hope will reach its highest point around 6:18 p.m. on Jan. 31.

"When we come in on Tuesday of next week and put the game plan in, I think they'll be really ready to zero in on specifics," Reeves said.

Meyer's Analysis

I'd put my game plan in early -- in familiar surroundings. I would practice the plays I want, then put them on tape and review them all in my little team meeting room -- have everything familiar. I'd also be calling the Jets and Vikings coaches respectfully and getting their opinion on what they'd do differently if they could do it again. If there's any fine-tuning, do it down there, but don't put it in writing. I don't trust those maids. Remember the old saying -- loose lips sink ships. -- Ron Meyer

"They have a good understanding of Denver now and a good feel for them. Now we just have to try to build our momentum to where we're peaking at the right time. I didn't want them to peak this week. Let's hope we wait and peak next week."

Although Reeves has lost six of the eight Super Bowls he's participated in, he feels it's vital his players relish this moment and form some lasting memories. To that end, Reeves will allow the families of Falcons players to stay with those players in the team hotel during the week. He will implement a curfew, beginning Wednesday.

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Teams taking different tacks on Super Bowl planning

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