Stephen A. Smith believes Patrick Mahomes’ success warrants a unique distinction: any quarterback losing to him shouldn’t be blamed. This bold statement highlights Mahomes’ dominance in the NFL.
According to ESPN’s outspoken analyst, Patrick Mahomes has earned a “free pass” for opposing quarterbacks. Smith argues that Mahomes’ consistent excellence and Super Bowl victories create a scenario where losing to him is understandable and shouldn’t negatively impact a quarterback’s reputation. This declaration sparked debate amongst NFL fans and analysts.
Mahomes’ Dominance Earns Him Unique Respect
Smith’s assertion stems from Mahomes’ impressive track record, including two Super Bowl titles, two Super Bowl MVP awards, and two league MVP awards. This level of achievement, according to Smith, sets Mahomes apart. He compared Mahomes to other legendary quarterbacks like Lamar Jackson and Aaron Rodgers, suggesting they also deserve similar consideration. However, Smith seemed less certain about Rodgers’ inclusion in this elite tier.
Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs reacts after a 26-13 victory against the New Orleans Saints at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium on Oct…Alt: Patrick Mahomes celebrates a Kansas City Chiefs victory, solidifying his status as a top NFL quarterback.
Statistical Dip Doesn’t Diminish Mahomes’ Impact
Despite a slight statistical dip in 2024, Mahomes continues to lead the undefeated Chiefs. While his touchdown to interception ratio is lower than his career average, the team’s winning streak underscores his continued influence. This season, Mahomes has thrown for six touchdowns and six interceptions, a stark contrast to his 41 touchdowns and 12 interceptions in 2022.
Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs drops back to pass against the New Orleans Saints during the first half of an NFL football game at GE…Alt: Patrick Mahomes prepares to throw a pass during a game against the New Orleans Saints, showcasing his quarterback skills despite a statistical decline in the 2024 season.
Limited Primetime Appearances for Mahomes and the Chiefs
Despite the Chiefs’ popularity and the “Taylor Swift effect,” the team has only one traditional primetime game remaining in the 2024 season: a Sunday Night Football matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on November 4th. Their Black Friday game against the Las Vegas Raiders, while nationally televised, occurs in the afternoon, minimizing its primetime impact. This limited exposure raises questions about the NFL’s scheduling decisions.
Mahomes’ Legacy Continues to Grow
The “free pass” concept, while controversial, underscores Mahomes’ impact on the NFL landscape. Whether or not one agrees with Smith, the discussion highlights Mahomes’ exceptional talent and the Chiefs’ continued success. The upcoming games will be crucial for Mahomes to solidify his legacy and potentially silence any critics. Will he maintain the Chiefs’ undefeated streak and continue his dominance?
