Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes shared his surprise about the standout performance from tight end Travis Kelce during the team’s Week 9 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
The Chiefs beat the Buccaneers in overtime on Monday night, 30-24. Kansas City’s victory pushed the team’s record to 8-0 this season, keeping them in the running for an undefeated season.
Despite a tough game where Mahomes rolled his ankle in the fourth quarter, he delivered one of his best performances of the year. He led multiple scoring drives and demonstrated strong connections with both Kelce and new wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins.
Reflecting on the game, Mahomes admitted he was taken aback by the extent of Kelce’s contributions, highlighting the quarterback’s admiration for his teammate’s abilities.
Kelce recorded a personal single-game record of 14 receptions for 100 yards, albeit without a touchdown.
“I didn’t realize he had that many catches,” Mahomes said in reference to Kelce’s impressive record, per Charles Goldman.
He even humorously said that he thought Kelce might have had a game with as many as 16 receptions.
#Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes on TE Travis Kelce’s single-game record of 14 receptions: “I didn’t realize he had that many catches.”
Also says he could have sworn Kelce had a game with like 16 receptions.
— Charles Goldman (@goldmctNFL) November 5, 2024
During the match, Mahomes was especially effective on third downs, converting 12-of-18 attempts. Overall, he finished the game with 291 passing yards and three touchdowns on 24-of-44 pass completions, mostly distributing the ball between Kelce and Hopkins.
The Chiefs will face the Denver Broncos next on Sunday, November 10, hoping to continue their winning streak and keep their perfect record intact.