Patrick Mahomes isn’t making any excuses regarding the recent on-field struggles of the Kansas City Chiefs.
He’s taking the blame after suffering his worst loss in the NFL, a 27-3 dud against the Arizona Cardinals.
The former league MVP was apologetic for his poor showing, wherein he failed to make a touchdown pass and finished with a 6.0 quarterback rating.
It’s only the second time during the Mahomes era that the Chiefs failed to score a touchdown, the first being Super Bowl LV.
Patrick Mahomes has as many interceptions (13) in his last 10 games as Aaron Rodgers does in his last..
*checks notes*
51 games. pic.twitter.com/JaauFGFV7J
— NFL Memes (@NFL_Memes) October 26, 2021
True to his leadership, he cited his failures in explaining the team’s loss.
He did not blame injuries or questionable coaching decisions as to the reason for their downfall.
Instead, he indirectly inspires his teammates that if the leader is willing to improve, the others must follow suit.
During the post-game press conference, the former Texas Tech standout mentioned finding a way to play better.
Can’t wait to get back after it this week! #ChiefsKingdom
— Patrick Mahomes II (@PatrickMahomes) October 26, 2021
When a media member requested elaboration on his response, Mahomes said that he must improve his timing, footwork, and reads of the defense.
Those elements are fundamental to a quarterback’s success, and he’s aware that he must work on them every week.
Pressing The Alarm Button
It’s weird to see the Chiefs at the bottom of the AFC West standings.
However, it’s not yet time to press the panic button because they still have a high-powered offense with Mahomes, Tyreek Hill, and Travis Kelce.
But they need a wake-up call to turn things around, and Mahomes does so by taking the blame.
.@PatrickMahomes: "It's been rainbows and flowers and awesome these last few years but when you want to build something substantial and something great you're going to go through parts like this." @KCTV5 pic.twitter.com/OqUkKbqr4V
— Dani Welniak (@KCTVDani) October 25, 2021
It’s an indirect statement to rally everyone and be more accountable for their effort every game.
Mahomes is inviting his teammates to improve their game without barking out their shortcomings.
More importantly, it’s a loud message that they can still turn things around.
The Tougher Work Starts Here
If they are to rediscover their championship form, the Chiefs must address particular concerns.
They must limit their turnovers, especially Mahomes.
He already has nine interceptions through seven games which are disturbing because he only had 11 in 2019 and 2020 combined.
Concerning that problem, somebody else on offense must step up.
Mahomes: "We have to go out and get better as a team" pic.twitter.com/mxomSE0J6E
— Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) October 28, 2021
Clyde Edwards-Helaire’s absence makes Kansas City’s attack more predictable.
Unfortunately, no one outside of Hill and Kelce is having a big day for the Chiefs.
They are hoping for Josh Gordon to be a big target that can complement Hill, but he only has one catch for 11 yards in two games played so far.
The limited options of Kansas City’s offense allow opposing defenses to put more men on Hill and Kelce.
They abandon sending extra men and cover his targets instead.
Tough stretch for Patrick Mahomes
— Leads NFL with 9 INTs (tied with Zach Wilson)
— Six straight games with a pick (longest of career)
— 16 INTs in 16 games
— 2 turnovers today
— Down 27-0 at halftime to Titans pic.twitter.com/twecOqIUW3— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) October 24, 2021
That way, they’re not allowing Mahomes to beat them through screen passes and one-on-one matchups.
Therefore, anyone from Byron Pringle, Mecole Hardman, and Demarcus Robinson must dominate to give the defense more headaches.
Finally, the Chiefs offensive line must commit to protecting Mahomes at all costs.
Their quarterback already received 14 sacks and countless quarterback hits, giving him less time to execute plays.
Executing a zone blocking scheme might help them pick up the blitz.
It’s Not Yet Over For Kansas City
Despite the turnovers, Mahomes is still one of the NFL’s best quarterbacks this season, with 2,093 yards and 18 touchdowns.
He will continue to lead his troops to battle in hopes of winning all of their remaining games.
Mahomes must recognize that they’re not a team that can score quickly.
Gone are the days when they could pull off victories despite trailing early.
QB1 has arrived 🙌#KCvsTEN | @Oakley pic.twitter.com/oopnsya3Hk
— Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) October 24, 2021
Therefore, they must play aggressively from the start because defenses won’t go soft on them.
Defeating the New York Giants in Week 8 is a positive step in their campaign.
It will also help them correct their miscues before the tougher part of their schedule comes.
NEXT: Patrick Mahomes Reveals No 1. Factor In Chiefs' Struggles
