Introduction
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes has consistently dazzled fans and opponents alike with his extraordinary talent and creativity on the football field.
Known for his no-look passes, jump throws, and even left-handed tosses, Mahomes has set a new standard for what a quarterback can do in the NFL. In the recent preseason game against the Detroit Lions, Mahomes once again demonstrated why he is considered one of the most innovative players in the league. This time, he introduced a new trick: a behind-the-back pass to his favorite target, Travis Kelce.
Mahomes’ Latest Magic Trick: The Behind-the-Back Pass (Kansas City Chiefs)
During the Chiefs’ preseason matchup on August 17, 2024, Mahomes rolled to his right, facing pressure from Lions defensive lineman Josh Paschal. As the pocket collapsed, Mahomes made a split-second decision to attempt a behind-the-back pass, a move rarely seen in the NFL.
MAHOMES BEHIND THE BACK 🫢
— NFL (@NFL) August 17, 2024
📺: #DETvsKC on @NFLNetwork
📱: Stream on #NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/eewdYOpS8c
The ball sailed over the outstretched hands of the defenders and landed perfectly in the hands of Travis Kelce, who gained eight yards and secured a first down.
The Chiefs’ drive ultimately resulted in a field goal, but the play left fans and commentators in awe. This latest trick not only added another highlight to Mahomes’ already impressive reel but also demonstrated his ability to think outside the box and execute under pressure.
The Origins of the Behind-the-Back Pass
Interestingly, this wasn’t the first time Mahomes had attempted a behind-the-back pass. According to Mahomes, he had been practicing the move for several weeks during training sessions, completing similar passes to teammates like Isiah Pacheco and Carson Steele. The move, however, had never been executed in a live game until this preseason showdown.
Mahomes revealed in a post-game interview with CBS Sports that the pass was actually born out of frustration. Kelce, who was supposed to run a different route, deviated from the plan. This led Mahomes to improvise and, as he put it, throw the pass “out of spite.” The result, however, was a moment of brilliance that added yet another chapter to Mahomes’ storied career.
Reaction from the NFL Community
The NFL community was quick to react to Mahomes’ latest feat. Travis Kelce’s brother, former NFL center Jason Kelce, took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his amazement, writing, “This son of a gun actually did it!! Magic Mahomes … Now that it’s been done in the preseason, I got a fever, and I need more cowbell.”
Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas, who was in attendance at the game, also chimed in, describing Mahomes’ decision as “unnecessary, but beautiful!!!” The play not only showcased Mahomes’ skill but also his flair for the dramatic, which has made him one of the most popular and marketable players in the league.
Andy Reid’s Influence on Mahomes’ Creativity
Mahomes’ creative playstyle is not solely a product of his natural talent but also the influence of Chiefs head coach Andy Reid. According to Mahomes, Reid had been encouraging him to attempt the behind-the-back pass in a game situation. “I’m telling you, he’s all for it,'” Mahomes said. “It’s me that’s the one that’s hesitant to do it in the game.”
Reid’s trust in Mahomes’ ability to execute unconventional plays has been a cornerstone of the Chiefs’ offensive success. The duo has built one of the most potent and unpredictable offenses in the NFL, leading the Chiefs to multiple Super Bowl victories and making them perennial contenders.
Table: Mahomes’ Iconic Unconventional Plays
| Play Type | Description | Notable Game |
|---|---|---|
| No-Look Pass | A pass thrown without looking directly at the intended receiver. | Chiefs vs. Ravens, 2018 |
| Left-Handed Throw | A left-handed pass thrown while evading pressure, completed for a crucial first down. | Chiefs vs. Broncos, 2018 |
| Jump Pass | A pass thrown while jumping in the air to avoid defenders. | Chiefs vs. Titans, 2019 |
| Behind-the-Back Pass | A pass thrown behind Mahomes’ back to Travis Kelce, gaining 8 yards and a first down. | Chiefs vs. Lions, 2024 (Preseason) |
The Road Ahead: Will We See More of the Behind-the-Back Pass?
While Mahomes has introduced the behind-the-back pass in a preseason game, the big question is whether we will see this move again during the regular season. Mahomes himself hinted that the play might resurface but only if the situation calls for it. “If you do it, it’s got to work,” Mahomes emphasized.
Given Mahomes’ track record, it’s likely that we will see this trick play again, possibly in a high-stakes situation where the Chiefs need a spark. Opposing defenses will have to prepare for yet another weapon in Mahomes’ ever-expanding arsenal, making the Chiefs even more difficult to defend.
Conclusion
Patrick Mahomes continues to redefine the quarterback position with his blend of athleticism, creativity, and fearlessness. His behind-the-back pass to Travis Kelce in the preseason game against the Lions is just the latest example of his ability to innovate on the fly. As the Chiefs gear up for the regular season, fans can expect more magic from Mahomes, who seems poised to push the boundaries of what is possible on the football field.
For those interested in delving deeper into Mahomes’ career and his influence on modern football, NFL.com offers an extensive archive of his greatest moments and interviews with key figures in his journey to NFL stardom .
As Mahomes continues to lead the Chiefs, one thing is certain: the NFL has never seen a player quite like him, and the best may be yet to come.
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