The Kansas City Chiefs faced a challenging start to the season with a 27-21 loss to the Chargers in São Paulo, ending the Chargers’ seven-game losing streak against the team. The Chiefs’ offense struggled throughout the game, failing to score a touchdown in the first half and showing difficulties with rhythm and execution.
Terry Bradshaw, a Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinee and analyst on Fox NFL Sunday, commented on Patrick Mahomes’ performance. According to Bradshaw, Mahomes’ lack of preseason action contributed significantly to his struggles. “It doesn’t matter if you’re Mahomes or Kelce-if you don’t play in the preseason, you’re just not sharp,” said Bradshaw.
Mahomes participated in only two preseason games and threw two touchdowns during that time. This limited play led to timing issues between him and his receivers as well as an offense that could not find its momentum early in the contest.
Michael Strahan supported Bradshaw’s perspective, stating that Xavier Worthy’s injury after colliding with Travis Kelce further complicated Kansas City’s passing game. Worthy is considering surgery, which might affect his availability for future games.
In the second half, Kansas City showed some improvement. Bradshaw noted better performance from offensive tackles but also acknowledged Justin Herbert’s effective play for the Chargers; Herbert finished with 313 yards passing and three touchdowns.
A key statistic underscoring Kansas City’s struggles was their 0-for-7 record on third-down conversions in the first half. The team managed only 33 total yards in the opening quarter—far below their typical output.
Controversy also surrounded Mahomes following a play in which he knocked down cornerback Donte Jackson while appearing headed out of bounds after securing a first down. Critics debated whether this move was skillful or took advantage of league rules; similar actions had previously drawn questions about Mahomes’ playing style.
With ongoing injuries, concerns about rhythm among key players, and debate over on-field decisions, Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs face several issues that need addressing as they aim to be Super Bowl contenders this season.
