Patrick Mahomes told Chiefs at halftime they need to bring more energy to preseason game
NFL MVP Patrick Mahomes played just one series Sunday during the Chiefs’ first preseason game against the Saints.
Mahomes completed his only two pass attempts for 15 yards, and he broke free on a 5-yard run in the Chiefs’ 26-24 loss.
This being a preseason game, Mahomes was interviewed on television in the third quarter, something you’d never see in a regular-season contest.
“It was good to get out there again,” Mahomes told sideline reporter Kimmi Chex, “and get in the swing of things.”
The Saints jumped to 17-0 lead early in the second quarter but backup quarterback Blaine Gabbert’s 1-yard touchdown pass to Richie James got the Chiefs on the board.
Mahomes then got to work on another part of his game: lighting a fire under his team. That came with a halftime talk.
“I was little pumped up at halftime there,” Mahomes said. “We had to bring the energy level up on the sideline. But I think the guys were responding well. I mean, obviously there’s mistakes but guys are learning from it, and I’m excited for these guys in the second half.”
Sure, it’s only a preseason game and it doesn’t count in the standings, but Mahomes’ competitive fire doesn’t ever take a break.
That little chat from Mahomes appeared to have helped. Shane Buechele threw two touchdown passes in the third quarter: a 15-yard laser to Justyn Ross and an 8-yard throw to Kekoa Crawford.
Mahomes was really excited at one point.
Those two TD throws gave the Chiefs a 21-17 lead and made KC fans at the Superdome happy. Mahomes took note of the showing by Chiefs Kingdom on Sunday.
“I said it at the ESPYs, I think we had the best fanbase in sports,” Mahomes said. “They travel everywhere. They’re passionate. They always have that red on and you always know they’re there. So I love having Chiefs Kingdom on my side and best fans in the world.”
This story was originally published August 13, 2023 at 3:08 PM.
