Despite an undefeated start, Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes has struggled in the early stages of the 2023 season, raising concerns about his current form.
The Kansas City Chiefs are off to a blistering start, winning their first four games of the 2023 season. However, beneath the surface, some concerns have emerged surrounding their star quarterback, Patrick Mahomes.
Mahomes hasn't been his usual self, averaging 226 passing yards per game and throwing five interceptions through the first four games. His tentative play has nearly cost the Chiefs games, with the team winning each contest by a single score.
Mahomes' Tentative Play: A Concern for Undefeated Chiefs
The two-time MVP acknowledges his recent struggles, attributing them to overthinking and relying excessively on film study. Mahomes believes he has become less instinctive in his play, missing out on opportunities that were once second nature to him.
Chiefs coach Andy Reid is confident in Mahomes' ability to improve, advising him to keep firing and work on the finer details. However, injuries to wide receivers Rashee Rice and Marquise "Hollywood" Brown have depleted Kansas City's passing attack, making it even more reliant on Mahomes.
Defenses around the league have also adapted to Mahomes' style, with Cover 2 schemes limiting his deep shots. The quarterback has had to adjust to relying more on intermediate throws, which he admits is less enjoyable.
Despite these challenges, the Chiefs believe they have a solution in rookie wide receiver Xavier Worthy, who possesses game-breaking speed and the potential to fill the void left by Tyreek Hill. Coach Reid is impressed with Worthy's football instincts and ability to avoid hits.
While Mahomes' early-season struggles are a concern, the Chiefs have shown they can win a Super Bowl even when their quarterback isn't playing at his peak. Last year, Mahomes had the worst statistical season of his six-year career with Kansas City and still led the team to a championship.
Coach Reid, known for his steady hand, is unfazed by Mahomes' current slump. He believes the quarterback's desire to improve and his constant presence in the building will ultimately lead to a return to form.
As the Chiefs look to extend their undefeated streak, all eyes will be on Mahomes to see if he can revert to his dominant play and erase any doubts about his early-season struggles.
