What we learned about Kansas City Chiefs in Mahomes-led 30-27 road win vs. Panthers
The Kansas City Chiefs picked up a road victory — but in true 2024 form, they didn’t make it easy on themselves.
Quarterback Patrick Mahomes led a game-winning drive inside the last two minutes, lifting the Chiefs to a 30-27 win over the Carolina Panthers on Sunday afternoon at Bank of America Stadium.
The Panthers, entering the game at 3-7, tied it at 27 with a touchdown and two-point conversion with 1:46 remaining.
But that was too much time for Mahomes. His biggest moment was a scramble, as he sprinted 33 yards down the sideline to the Panthers 22 with 39 seconds left to put the Chiefs into field-goal range.
Recently signed kicker Spencer Shrader put through the 31-yard field goal as time expired.
This one was close because of KC’s inability to stop a before-the-game struggling Carolina pass offense.
The Panthers, behind previously benched QB Bryce Young, dissected the Chiefs secondary. Young completed 21 of 35 passes for 262 yards, while Carolina averaged a healthy 5.8 yards per play.
KC also got almost no pass rush for a second straight week — a reason for concern as the team prepares for the season’s most important games ahead.
Mahomes, meanwhile, played one of his best games of the season, completing 27 of 37 passes for 269 yards with the three scores.
The Chiefs led 20-9 at halftime thanks to their efficient offense.
Mahomes took advantage of his few possessions then, completing 19 of 24 passes for 207 yards before the break with a pair of touchdown passes to tight end Noah Gray.
KC scored on all four drives, including a 14-play, 92-yard march late in the second quarter.
Young went 10-for-18 for 177 yards before the break, as Carolina averaged 8.6 yards per pass and 7.5 yards per play.
The Chiefs (10-1) will play at home against the Las Vegas Raiders at 2 p.m. Central on Friday, Nov. 29.
This story was originally published November 24, 2024 at 3:25 PM.
