Chiefs Struggle in Loss to Broncos as Mahomes Takes Blame

DENVER — Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes took responsibility for the team’s 5-5 record after a narrow loss to the Denver Broncos on Sunday. Despite being competitive, the Chiefs fell to the Broncos, who improved to 9-2 and solidified their position in the AFC West.

After the game, Mahomes did not speak to reporters immediately and entered the locker room silently. Once at the podium, he expressed disappointment and emphasized the need for consistency in their gameplay. “I think we’re really talented and we’ve got a lot of great players, but it’s about being more consistent. I think it starts with me,” he said.

Throughout the game, Mahomes struggled against the Broncos’ defense. On the Chiefs’ opening drive, he missed two potential deep connections with his receivers, including one that could have resulted in a 61-yard touchdown pass. “I’ve just got to make the throw. There’s no other way around it,” Mahomes admitted.

The Chiefs hoped a victory after their bye week would help them chase down the Broncos and maintain hopes of winning a 10th consecutive AFC West title. However, their odds have now dropped significantly, with just a 10% chance to win the division, according to NFL Next Gen Stats.

“It’s going to be tough to get back in the division race,” Mahomes said, as the team prepares to face an 8-2 opponent next week. He added, “We’ve got to find a way to win games.”

While the Chiefs have dropped five games this season, all have been by a margin of eight points or fewer. This season marks a stark contrast to their previous streak of 17 consecutive victories in such close matches.

Mahomes’ performance included a critical mistake in the red zone, where he attempted a risky pass rather than opting for a safer throw away. This led to an interception that allowed the Broncos to score their only touchdown. “I just didn’t throw it high enough. [The defender] made a good play. I didn’t give myself much of a chance,” he reflected.

Defensive efforts from the Chiefs were clouded by missed scoring opportunities and a less-than-ideal performance from key offensive players. Despite tight end Travis Kelce breaking the franchise record for total touchdowns, claiming his 84th career score, the team’s offensive struggles overshadowed individual achievements.

“If you were going to ask me about the record, I could care less about that right now,” Kelce said post-game, emphasizing the team’s disappointing outcome over personal success.

With the pressure on, the Chiefs look ahead to their next game in need of a turnaround to keep playoff hopes alive.