By Andrew Banks

There was literally nothing to write about on the Chiefs second preseason game. That was until Patrick Mahomes blessed us with probably the greatest pass in preseason history. It was a forgettable first half for a team that needed an unforgettable one. Chiefs fans were hungry for something spectacular out of their new franchise quarterback. Shoot, a single touchdown was all we needed to satisfy our appetite. The first team offense had not put up a TD in six consecutive quarters. Some people believe that this offense has the potential to rival “The Greatest Show on Turf”. For the record none of those people are me. So the frustration of not putting the ball in the end-zone was mounting. Then Mahomes unleashed an absolute rocket towards the end zone, a 69-yard bomb that hit Tyreek Hill right in the bread basket.

I think it’s important to emphasize that the ball traveled 69 yards IN THE AIR. That would have been an impressive punt. This was not a hail mary either. He did not set his feet. He was off balance. He was hurried. Ladies and gentlemen, that is not normal. Human beings are not supposed to be able to do that and make it look that easy.

Even Mahomes admitted that was a first for him.

“I don’t think I’ve ever thrown one that far in a game”- Patrick Mahomes

But wait there’s more! Here’s some reaction around the league

Jaguars cornerback Jalen Ramsey had some choice words for numerous quarterbacks around the league earlier this week but left out Pat Mahomes. Well, looks like he finally had something to say about him.

Just when you thought the hype for Mahomes was beginning to fizzle out, he leaves us with that beauty of a throw. His play in the first half was a perfect microcosm of what I think his season will look like. If we are being honest, the throw he made on Friday was against Falcon players that probably won’t make the team. While he did provide us with something tantalizing to discuss for the next week, he also threw a horrible interception and should have thrown another one. There are subtle things about his game that need improvement. His footwork is inconsistent. He has a tendency to stare down his targets. On the interception he threw, if he had looked off the safety he could have hit Sammy Watkins. Instead, it made for an easy pick by the defender. The Chiefs have made Patrick Mahomes interceptions a storyline throughout camp as if to remind people not to crown him as a savior too quickly. He might be in his second year, but this is his first taste of being the man. The pressure on his shoulders is immense. Mahomes getting handed the keys to this offense is like being handed the keys to a Ferrari. Kareem Hunt led the league in rushing last year. Tyreek Hill had a career year last year with Alex Smith. Oh, and Travis Kelce is the best tight end in football. With one of the leagues best offensive arsenals, Mahomes doesn’t have many excuses to fail. Expectations need to be tempered though.

He’s shown flashes of brilliance in his limited playing time. He’s also shown that he’s still inexperienced. This season is going to ride or die on the arm of Mahomes. I expect we will see both sides of the young quarterback. When September 9th comes around, buckle up.