Patrick Mahomes’ team, the Kansas City Chiefs, had the chance to secure their eighth consecutive AFC West title on Christmas Day. But unfortunately, the team faced a brutal loss to the Las Vegas Raiders and lost this chance. The team struggled because of their defense, which didn’t allow the team even 210 yards and just 6 points.
In addition to defensive setbacks, the Chiefs have been grappling with offensive challenges this season. In a recent press conference, Patrick Mahomes suggested a strategy to solve this problem for the NFL Playoffs.
What did Patrick Mahomes say?
Considering the recent situation of the team, the QB explained the void of Eric Bieniemy and how it has affected the team negatively.
Patrick Mahomes emphasized that the team’s accountability standards were set by former offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy, who joind the Commanders. He mentioned seeing the lingering effects of Bieniemy’s influence even after his departure.
“I think Coach Bieniemy set that standard when he was here. And I think you could see those lingering effects of the other coaches who have coached underneath EB (Eric Bieniemy) and then coach Nagy.”
Mahomes highlighted a culture of accountability, both among the players and the coaching staff. He stated that they hold each other accountable for their performance and mistakes on the field.
“Yeah, I mean, it’s a combination of a lot of guys,” Patrick Mahomes explained. “I mean, I coached with EB, been an offensive coordinator before, and QB coach last year, We hold each other accountable; the coaches hold us accountable.”
Despite the accountability, Mahomes admitted that the team has made mistakes that are not typical for them. He expressed a commitment to correcting these errors as quickly as possible.
“But obviously, we’ve made some mistakes that we don’t typically make, and we’re gonna try to correct those as quickly as possible,” the QB added.
Considering Patrick Mahomes comments about the positive impact Bieniemy had and how without him, the team is struggling, the QB is in favor of prompting the Chiefs to bring in a new emergency coach for the NFL playoffs.
Eric Bieniemy’s return can be the key to saving the season. While nothing is confirmed yet, the QB has also highlighted his void, so there are chances the team might consider this option.
Can the Chiefs make it to the playoffs despite Week 16 loss?
The Chiefs faced a disappointing Christmas Day loss in Week 16 against the Las Vegas Raiders, the game Taylor Swift also attended. However, the team is still in a favorable position as they still stand among the top three teams in the AFC for Week 17.
Here is the AFC Playoff Picture for Week 17:
- Baltimore Ravens (12-3)
- Miami Dolphins (11-4)
- Kansas City Chiefs (9-6)
- Jacksonville Jaguars (8-7)
- Cleveland Browns (10-5)
- Buffalo Bills (9-6)
- Indianapolis Colts (8-7)
After 16 weeks of regular season, the team is currently at the No. 3 seed. While attaining the top position is difficult, the team can hop to the number two position if they win the remaining games, and then they will play against the Colts.
Considering the recent situation, it seems like the Chiefs will play the Bills in the Wild Card Round and if they drop to the fourth position, then they will play the Browns.
In short, things are quite intense and uncertain for the chiefs. But one thing is certain: they can’t relax at this point; one more mistake can lead to big consequences. But hard work, passion, and the right coaching moves can help the team reach the playoffs.
