How the 2020 Chiefs playoff run is different than 2019

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KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI – DECEMBER 29: Quarterback Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs passes to tight end Travis Kelce #87 during the 1st quarter of the game against the Los Angeles Chargers at Arrowhead Stadium on December 29, 2019 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images) /

The Evolution of Patrick Mahomes

We all know Patrick Mahomes had one of the all time greatest seasons in NFL history in 2018, his first as a starter. His MVP season led the Chiefs all the way to the brink of their first Super Bowl appearance in half a century.

But here is what most people do not realize: Mahomes is better this season.

Obviously the numbers do not compare. On the one hand there were the injuries, but on the other (and more important) hand, the Chiefs did not need All-World Patrick Mahomes to get to the Super Bowl. It’s in that realization that the evolution of Mahomes has led Kansas City to this point. Last year, every time he had the ball in his hands, it felt like Mahomes was trying to win the game with every flick of his wrist.

The 2019 version of PMII is more mature and patient. Instead of trying to win the game with every throw, Mahomes is content to let the games come to him. Instead of taking a shot or two (or three or four) on every drive, the reigning league MVP is taking calculated shots a few times a game. Mahomes looks like he’s more comfortable under center for the Chiefs.

The Chiefs probably will not put up 51 points the rest of the playoffs like they did against the Texans last weekend. But Mahomes probably will not need to. This version of Mahomes is the best quarterback Kansas City has ever had, and he’s got the weapons and defense to go all the way. It’s not business as usual in Kansas City; it’s different this time.

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