The Chiefs... But without Patrick Mahomes

Isaiah J. Downing/USA TODAY Sports

Last night, Chiefs fans watched helplessly as they witnessed their season nearly fall apart during yesterday’s Thursday night games. It was 4th-and-1, not even halfway through the second quarter when Andy Reid called a quarterback sneak. Kansas City converted but, more importantly, Patrick Mahomes suffered what appeared to be a dislocated knee. Initially, it was believed to be a significant injury, but after an MRI earlier today the Chiefs have said he should only miss about three weeks. This is great news for fans of Kansas City and the NFL alike, but what does it mean for the outlook of the Chiefs’ season.

If Mahomes truly only misses three weeks of action, the Chiefs are not in jeopardy of missing the playoffs. With Thursday’s win over the Broncos, they are now 5-2 on the season. The Chargers, who were supposed to challenge them for the division title, are currently 2-4 and the Raiders are (surprisingly) currently sitting at 3-2. It is possible they continue exceeding expectations and make a run for the number one spot in the division, albeit unlikely. As for the Broncos, they are now 2-5 and with Joe Flacco leading the way, they are in no position to have a resurgent second half.

While a scenario where the Chiefs do not win the division may be improbable it is not impossible. Assuming that Mahomes misses three games, they could very easily go winless in those three weeks; with games at home against the Packers, Vikings and away versus the Titans.

Once they get their star QB back; their remaining schedule will consist of at least one meeting against all three of their divisional foes, while matching up with the chargers twice. If Patty Ice returns and does not perform up to his normal standard, it is plausible they could drop three of those games. They also must go to Foxborough to face the Patriots and beating them in New England is nearly impossible if you are not firing on all cylinders.

The Chiefs are also tasked with making the journey to Soldier Field and attempting to take down the Bears and their game-wrecking defense. All this being said, there is a very small possibility last years’ MVP returns while not looking the same, and the Chiefs lose the division and miss the playoffs.

Now for the much more likely scenario that Mahomes returns, continues lighting up the league, and the Chiefs make the playoffs. Considering this scenario, it is still extremely credible that Kansas City goes 0-3 in Mahomes absence. Their defense is abysmal and Matt Moore will be unable to make up for their shortcomings. They will then be 5-5 and even if they only drop one game upon Mahomes’ return they will finish the season 10-6. That record won’t be enough to keep them ahead of the Ravens or Texans for the two seed in the AFC. Though it is not going to matter.

Once Kansas City makes the playoffs, they do not need home-field advantage because whoever they play in the wild card they will beat. The only thing Mahomes’ injury will change is that they could meet New England in the divisional round instead of the conference championship which might end their season earlier than expected. They will have a hard time going into Foxborough and winning, no matter when they face off. It seems things are falling in place for the Patriots yet again.

All of this is cool to talk about, but the most important thing is that Patrick Mahomes is okay. There could not be a better man to be the face of the NFL. He is a remarkable player and an even more remarkable person, the game is better off with him than without him. Hopefully, he comes back healthy and continues to redefine the quarterback position, and the game, as we know it. Get well soon MVP.

-Paul Hessing