Patrick Mahomes puts on a show against the Chargers where the crisis seems to be looming.
Kansas City Chiefs (6-1) – Los Angeles Chargers (2-4): 31-17
The AFC West in the spotlight, with this meeting that has become an NFL classic, between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Los Angeles Chargers. A meeting marked by the 10th game with more than 400 passing yards for Patrick Mahomes (32/42, 453 yards, 4 TDs, INT) who put on the show. Light years away from the insipid performance last week against the Broncos.
At his side, he can count again on Travis Kelce (12 REC, 179 yards, TD). But the tight end is not the only one to shine. Second best receiver in number of receptions, Rashee Rice (5 REC, 60 yards, TD) is given more and more responsibilities. With this 6th consecutive victory against their division rivals, the Chiefs beat the Chargers.
The Los Angeles franchise seemed so close. Yet she seems so far away. After being eye-catching in the first half, Justin Herbert and his teammates missed chances to go ahead in the second. The crisis is not here yet. But, she seems to be watching Brandon Staley’s team, more than ever in the hot seat.
4 in a row
After a first quarter with a field goal each, the two teams will go blow for blow in a spectacular 2nd quarter. Joshua Kelley (7 carries, 75 yards, TD) running and Gerald Everett (3 REC, 26 yards, TD) receiving respond to two touchdowns from Patrick Mahomes, thrown to Marquez Valdez-Scantling (3 REC, 84 yards, TD) and Rashee Rice.
In the meantime, Asante Samuel Jr. had time to intercept Mahomes, and Charles Omenihu to sack Justin Herbert. Marked by several inspired plays, this first half was enjoyable, with attacks taking over defenses.
The results of this first half? 41 points, and 566 yards in total. With in conclusion, a powerful touchdown from the inevitable Travis Kelce, for which it is the 50th touchdown pass between Patrick Mahomes and him. All this before the eyes of Taylor Swift.
The Chargers in crisis?
Mistreated during the first half, the defenses recovered. Result ? 0 points in the 3rd quarter, and some inspired defensive plays. Eric Kendricks causes a fumble on the Chargers side. The Chiefs responded with the interception of L’Jarius Sneed, on a deflected pass from a Justin Herbert (17/30, 259 yards, TD, 2 INT) in difficulty in the second half. The man of this 3rd quarter is JK Scott, the Chargers punter, author of a 65-yard punt (!).
But, Kansas City will ultimately have the last word thanks to its special team. Back, Mecole Hardman returns a punt for 50 yards. A few actions later, Isaiah Pacheco at reception will finish the job, and push the Chargers with a Justin Herbert again intercepted by Bryan Cook.
The 50th career TD connection for @tkelce and @PatrickMahomeswe #NationalTightEndsDay 🤩
📺: #LACvsKC on CBS
📱: Stream on #NFLPlus https://t.co/iTs8HMaXlh pic.twitter.com/1ORjTB8RKy— NFL (@NFL) October 22, 2023
