The Kansas City Chiefs’ aspirations for a division title have taken a significant hit following their recent loss to the Denver Broncos, leveling their record at 5-5 for the season. For the first time since 2015, the team will head into the season with its longest odds to win the AFC West. Just 10% according to NFL Next Gen Stats, if we’re talking about existing metrics. The Chiefs have faced an uphill battle this season, suffering five losses, all by eight points or fewer, a stark contrast to their previous success in close games.
Patrick Mahomes came to Kansas City in 2015 through the draft and has helped revolutionize their success. Even after the game, he continued to share his frustration. Armed with only four minutes on the clock and no timeouts to spare, Mahomes found himself in familiar territory with the chance to orchestrate a game-winning drive. The play was drawn up for star tight end Travis Kelce, who ended up wide open. However, Mahomes’ pass was intercepted by Brandon Jones, sealing the Chiefs’ fate in the match.
“I just didn’t throw it high enough,” – Patrick Mahomes
Mahomes reiterated that it’s important for this team to keep a short memory and continue looking ahead. He emphasized the need to play smart during winning time.
“I’ve made that throw before, but with the type of game we’re in, don’t put the ball in harm’s way. Take the three points and move on to the next possession,” – Patrick Mahomes
Kansas City Head Coach Andy Reid again echoed what Mahomes just said, noting the significance of superior execution in close contests. Reid’s overall point was that the team would have to adjust. Third, they need to figure out how to come on top of tight contests, a tall order for the team this season.
“When you’re playing good teams, whether it’s myself making a play call or the players playing, you’ve got to do the right things,” – Andy Reid
The Chiefs had entered this game in on a historic run of 17 wins in one-score games (playoffs included), an NFL-record streak. This year, they have found themselves on the losing end of a number of highly contested close games.
Nick Bolton, a key linebacker for the team, stated that maintaining a focused mindset is crucial as they navigate through the remainder of the season. He reinforced the idea that if they want to win a playoff spot, every week needs to be treated like a playoff week.
“I mean, every week is kind of getting to the point where it’s like a playoff week. We’ve got to find a way to one game at a time,” – Nick Bolton
It’s no better when we look at the statistical forecast for the Chiefs. Historically, entering this season, 989 teams in the Super Bowl era have started with a record of 5-5 or worse after ten games. Of those teams, just one—Tom Brady’s 2001 New England Patriots—went on to win the Super Bowl.
Two weeks into the season, and growing more clear by the day, is how vital consistency will be for Mahomes and his teammates. He took their talent to task, but made it clear that the only thing that’s going to get better starts with him.
“I think we’re really talented and we’ve got a lot of great players, but it’s about being more consistent. I think it starts with me,” – Patrick Mahomes
Despite his team’s playoff hopes fading by the week, Mahomes is confident that the Chiefs can right the ship. He termed the maritime industry that is rightfully proud and protective of its independence to meet those challenges.
“That’s what you want, you want that opportunity at the end of the game,” – Patrick Mahomes
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