John Harbaugh recalls Jim nearly drowning him during family vacation: “Going to be in jail”

With the Baltimore Ravens eyeing a Super Bowl title after a stellar regular season under John Harbaugh’s guidance, the addition of his brother Jim Harbaugh to the Los Angeles Chargers brings an intriguing dynamic to the NFL coaching landscape. Jim’s recent appointment follows the departure of Brandon Staley, providing the Harbaugh brothers with another opportunity to share the sidelines.

The eldest of the two recently shared an anecdote relating back to the time their families went on a beach holiday.

John Harbaugh recounts Jim almost drowning him on a beach

John Harbaugh, who recently stole the headlines with a wild celebration, shared a memorable story about an eventful beach day with his brother Jim back in 2019. During an appearance on Pardon My Take, John recounted the beach escapade that almost ended with him being “drowned” by his brother.

The brothers, along with their kids, was passing a good beach time in 2013. Little did John know that the peaceful day would take a surprising turn.

“We’re wrestling. He throws a single leg into my right leg as hard as he can. I sprawl, full sprawl, crossface as hard as I can and smash him right in the face,” he said.

What began as a playful tussle quickly escalated when Jim began to exhibit his strength by submerging John underwater. As the waves crashed around them, John was in a tough situation, with the sand and saltwater creating a scary atmosphere.

Despite the initial lightheartedness, Jim continued to hold John underwater before finally releasing the Ravens’ HC.

“I’m thinking this is going to be it. He’s snapped. He’s gone. I’ve lost him. He’s going to be in jail for the rest of his life, but that’s not going to help me. I’m done. He let me up finally.”

The story quickly attracted the attention of the NFL fans at that time, who are now again going to be in the limelight as the head coach brothers’ duo is set to clash as contenders in the upcoming NFL season at SoFi Stadium.

John Harbaugh got his revenge by defeating Jim in NFL Super Bowl

The stage was set for an epic showdown on February 3, 2013, as Super Bowl XLVII pitted brothers John Harbaugh and Jim Harbaugh against each other in what was dubbed the “Harbaugh Bowl.” John was leading the Baltimore Ravens, and Jim was at the San Francisco 49ers’ helm.

With both teams boasting impressive records, anticipation for the showdown reached a fever pitch. The Ravens, with a regular-season record of 10–6, were making their second Super Bowl appearance in franchise history. Meanwhile, the 49ers, with an 11-4-1 record, aimed to secure their sixth Super Bowl win.

The Ravens seized control early, with quarterback Joe Flacco guiding the squad to a commanding 21-6 lead at halftime. However, the resilient 49ers mounted a fierce comeback in the second half and scored 17 points narrowing the gap to 34-29. With the outcome hanging in the balance, the 49ers had a chance to complete the comeback in the final moments.

But the Ravens’ defense held firm by denying the 49ers a dramatic goal-line stand that culminated in a turnover on downs. With victory within their grasp, John’s team opted for an intentional safety to run out the clock. The move ultimately sealed a hard-fought 34-31 triumph for them.

For John, the victory was sweet redemption, as he emerged triumphant over his brother Jim. Now, the NFL world can expect to witness such a scenario in the upcoming season.