SANTA CLARA -- Kyle Shanahan has conducted two press conferences this week and marveled each time at the massive media contingent before him.
The 49ers head coach understands why we’re here. The NFL playoffs are, well, kind of a big deal in these parts. Crowds have swelled in open locker room sessions and player press conferences as reporters preview and break down Saturday’s divisional-round playoff between the 49ers and Minnesota Vikings at Levi’s Stadium.
The team’s routine doesn’t change. Media availability is the same length as the regular season. That isn’t different come playoff time. Neither is the game, which is simply more intense in a do-or-die situation.