Is Patrick Mahomes' Choice Highlighting a Troubling Trend for the Chiefs and Travis Kelce?

This season, the Kansas City Chiefs are grappling with a significant challenge after starting 0-2, a situation that has historically hindered playoff aspirations. With only one successful playoff run from 15 teams that began a season with such a record, and a mere 12.2% of teams making the postseason since 1990, the stakes are high. Star quarterback Patrick Mahomes, known for his resilience, has acknowledged his role in the team's struggles, while the offensive line and receiving corps face mounting pressure. The need for strategic adjustments has never been more critical.

Last updated: 05 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• The Chiefs are 0-2, a historically challenging start for playoff contention.
• Patrick Mahomes' scramble rate has doubled, indicating issues with the offensive line.
• The wide receiver corps lacks depth due to injuries and suspensions.
• Upcoming games present a tough schedule, with only 50% win probability in five of them.
• Veteran tight end Travis Kelce faces pressure as he nears retirement.

The Historical Context of 0-2 Starts

Starting a season with two consecutive losses is a daunting challenge for any NFL team. Historically, of the 15 teams that began their season at 0-2, only one managed to make it to the playoffs, and that team was eliminated in the wild-card round. The numbers are stark; since 1990, just 12.2% of teams have fought back to reach the postseason after a losing start. This puts the Kansas City Chiefs in a precarious position as they embark on the rest of the season.

Patrick Mahomes: The Game-Changer Under Pressure

Patrick Mahomes, renowned for his game-changing abilities, is now facing scrutiny over his performance. Despite his track record, which boasts of extraordinary talent and leadership, Mahomes has admitted to feeling the weight of the current situation. His scramble rate has surged to over 15% this year, a striking increase from his career average of 6.2%. This uptick suggests that he has been forced to leave the pocket more often due to mounting pressures from opposing defences.

Offensive Line Struggles

The performance of the Chiefs' offensive line has come under fire, with the unit allowing 36.95 pressures so far this season, ranking them 16th out of 32 teams. This mediocrity has compounded issues for Mahomes, who must now navigate defences with less protection than usual. His propensity to scramble has sometimes been necessary, but Mahomes himself acknowledges that it has not always been the best option. Instead, he believes that staying in the pocket and trusting his offensive line could yield better results.

Wide Receiver Woes

The Chiefs' receiving corps is currently facing significant challenges. Rashee Rice is serving a six-game suspension, while Xavier Worthy is sidelined with a shoulder injury sustained in Week 1. The absence of these key players has left the team with a thin receiving group, struggling to support Mahomes effectively. Last season, the team managed only 26 receiving touchdowns, alongside 11 interceptions from Mahomes—an underwhelming performance for a quarterback of his calibre.

Looking Ahead: The Tough Schedule

The road ahead for the Chiefs is fraught with challenges. According to predictions from The Athletic's Austin Mock, Kansas City faces the sixth-hardest schedule this season. Out of their next 15 games, five are predicted to be toss-ups, with a 50% chance of winning. If the Chiefs falter in these matches, they could end the season with a record of 10-7, which may not be enough to secure a playoff berth.

Travis Kelce's Last Hurrah?

Veteran tight end Travis Kelce, who is approaching the end of his career, is under immense pressure to perform. Following a disappointing Super Bowl loss against the Chiefs, Kelce's future came into question, with many speculating about his potential retirement. Last season's numbers were below his usual standard, with only three touchdowns in 16 games, the lowest since his rookie year. This year, he has shown signs of struggle, logging just six receptions for 108 yards and one touchdown in the first two games.

Finding Solutions

With the challenges mounting, the Chiefs must explore alternative strategies to regain their competitive edge. Mahomes cannot shoulder the burden alone; the offensive line needs to improve its performance, and the receiving corps must step up in the absence of key players. Andy Reid, the head coach, is known for his adaptability and may need to rethink his approach to maximise the talents of the remaining roster. The Chiefs' Kingdom is counting on him to find a way to navigate these troubled waters.

The Importance of Team Cohesion

The key to overcoming this challenging start lies in team cohesion. Mahomes must build trust with his remaining receivers, and the offensive line must solidify its protection to allow time for plays to develop. The Chiefs have the talent; it’s about executing effectively as a unit. Mahomes has emphasised the importance of trusting his offensive line and working through progressions to create opportunities downfield.

Conclusion

The Kansas City Chiefs face a pivotal moment in their season. Starting 0-2 presents a daunting challenge, but with the right adjustments and a renewed sense of teamwork, they can still turn the tide. Mahomes, Kelce, and the rest of the team must rise to the occasion and find ways to secure victories in the upcoming matches. The next few games will be crucial in determining whether they can overcome this rough patch and head towards a hopeful postseason. Will they rise to the challenge, or will this season mark a disappointing end?

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FAQs

What does an 0-2 start mean for NFL teams?

An 0-2 start historically indicates a tough path to the playoffs, with only about 12.2% of teams since 1990 making it to the postseason after such a start.

How has Patrick Mahomes' performance changed this season?

Mahomes has increased his scramble rate to over 15% this season, significantly higher than his career average of 6.2%, indicating struggles with protection from the offensive line.

What issues are the Chiefs facing with their receiving corps?

The Chiefs are currently lacking depth at wide receiver, with key players like Rashee Rice suspended and Xavier Worthy injured, leaving Mahomes with fewer options to target.

What is the significance of the Chiefs' upcoming schedule?

The Chiefs have a tough schedule ahead, predicted to be the sixth-hardest, with five games expected to be tightly contested, making each matchup critical for their playoff hopes.

What does Travis Kelce's performance indicate for the Chiefs?

Kelce's declining stats and nearing retirement raise concerns about the team's ability to rely on him as a primary target, highlighting the need for other players to step up.