Who Won the Super Bowl in 1990? Full Breakdown

By Sarah Miller · January 12, 2036

The winner of the Super Bowl in 1990 was the San Francisco 49ers, who defeated the Denver Broncos 55-10 in Super Bowl XXIV on January 28, 1990. This decisive victory marked their second consecutive Super Bowl win and fourth overall, solidifying their dynasty status in the late 1980s under head coach Bill Walsh and later George Seifert.

Overview of Super Bowl XXIV

Super Bowl XXIV took place on January 28, 1990, at the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana. The game featured a matchup between the NFC champion San Francisco 49ers and the AFC champion Denver Broncos. It was a dominant performance by the 49ers, who delivered one of the most lopsided victories in Super Bowl history.

Key Highlights of the Game

Final Score: San Francisco 49ers 55 – Denver Broncos 10
Venue: Louisiana Superdome, New Orleans
Date: January 28, 1990
MVP: Joe Montana, Quarterback, San Francisco 49ers
Attendance: 73,818
Halftime Show: “New Orleans Party” featuring Patti LaBelle and Tony Bennett

Path to the Super Bowl

Both teams had strong seasons leading up to Super Bowl XXIV, but their playoff paths differed significantly in competitiveness.

San Francisco 49ers' Season and Playoffs

Regular Season Record: 14–2
NFC West Champions
Playoff Wins: Defeated Minnesota Vikings (41–13) and Los Angeles Rams (30–3)
Offensive firepower led by Joe Montana, Jerry Rice, and Roger Craig

Denver Broncos' Season and Playoffs

Regular Season Record: 11–5
AFC East Champions
Playoff Wins: Defeated Pittsburgh Steelers (26–24) and Cleveland Browns (37–21)
Quarterback John Elway led a high-powered offense but struggled in the big game

Game Analysis and Key Performances

The 49ers dominated from the opening drive, setting the tone early with precision passing and relentless defense. Joe Montana threw for five touchdowns, completing 22 of 29 passes for 297 yards without an interception. His performance earned him his third Super Bowl MVP award, a record at the time.

Jerry Rice contributed with two touchdown receptions, while running back Roger Craig added two rushing touchdowns. The 49ers’ offensive efficiency overwhelmed the Broncos, who committed critical mistakes and failed to adjust.

Category	San Francisco 49ers	Denver Broncos
Points Scored	55	10
Total Yards	477	269
Passing Yards	297	226
Rushing Yards	180	43
First Downs	24	11
Turnovers	1	4
Time of Possession	35:34	24:26

Table data source:1, 2

The statistical dominance of the 49ers is evident in total yardage, turnover margin, and time of possession. Their 180 rushing yards and efficient clock control limited Denver’s opportunities. The Broncos’ four turnovers were pivotal, directly contributing to San Francisco’s scoring runs.

Legacy and Historical Significance

Super Bowl XXIV cemented the 49ers as one of the greatest dynasties in NFL history. With this win, they became the first team to win five Super Bowls (following XVI, XIX, XXIII, and now XXIV). Joe Montana enhanced his legacy as a clutch performer, joining an elite group of quarterbacks with three Super Bowl MVP awards.

For the Broncos, the loss was part of a difficult stretch—this was their fourth Super Bowl loss in five appearances during the 1980s and early 1990s, all with John Elway at quarterback. They would not win their first Super Bowl until 1998 (XXXIII).

Frequently Asked Questions About the 1990 Super Bowl

Who won the Super Bowl in 1990?

The San Francisco 49ers won the Super Bowl in 1990, defeating the Denver Broncos 55-10 in Super Bowl XXIV.

What was the score of Super Bowl XXIV?

The final score of Super Bowl XXIV was San Francisco 49ers 55, Denver Broncos 10.

Who was named MVP of Super Bowl 1990?

Joe Montana, quarterback of the San Francisco 49ers, was named MVP after throwing for five touchdowns and 297 yards.

Where was the 1990 Super Bowl held?

Super Bowl XXIV was held at the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Was Super Bowl XXIV the last game for Bill Walsh?

No, Bill Walsh retired after Super Bowl XXIII (1989). George Seifert was the head coach for the 49ers in Super Bowl XXIV, making it his first Super Bowl win as a head coach.