The Kubiak brothers are set to square off in a do-or-die NFL playoff matchup this weekend, but there hasn’t been much opportunity for any brotherly catching up.
San Francisco’s dramatic win over the defending Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles in last weekend’s NFC wild-card round set up a divisional showdown with longtime rival Seattle. That also created a family storyline, with 49ers offensive coordinator Klay Kubiak preparing to face his older brother, Klint Kubiak, the Seahawks’ offensive coordinator.
Klay and Klint are the son of Gary Kubiak, who was the winning head coach of the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl 50.
MORE: 49ers' Fred Warner leaves door open for potential return vs. Seahawks
Before practice on Wednesday, Klay addressed reporters and was asked who reached out first after the 49ers–Seahawks matchup became official — and his answer was blunt.
"There's been no texting this week," Klay responded, sternly. "No time. Six-day week again. We got to just get to work."
Given the stakes, that response likely won’t shock anyone. It is the postseason, after all.
MORE: Fred Warner's LB replacement wants to 'pump the brakes' on the All-Pro's return
And while the Kubiaks share a last name, there’s little affection between the two franchises or their fan bases.
Klay also played a key role in one of the 49ers’ most memorable moments against Philadelphia, dialing up the trick play that saw wide receiver Jauan Jennings throw a touchdown pass to running back Christian McCaffrey.
More 49ers news:
49ers' Ricky Pearsall shares good news on status for playoff game vs. Seahawks
Brock Purdy enters Seahawks test with growing trust and rising stakes
Shanahan expects strong 49ers fan presence despite Seahawks' ticket warning
Robert Saleh predicted to leave 49ers for head coaching job with division rival