In The Pocket: The greatness of Patrick Mahomes, the importance of playoff experience, and the shock of Ben Johnson remaining in Detroit
Jan 31, 2024
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Guest Patrick Mahomes discusses the greatness of a top-tier quarterback. The hosts touch on the surprising decision of Ben Johnson remaining in Detroit as offensive coordinator. They also discuss the implications of playoff experience and how the Chiefs shut down Lamar Jackson. The evolution of Patrick Mahomes' game and his exceptional playoff performance are analyzed.
The Chiefs' playoff experience and mental composure have been instrumental in their success, allowing them to believe in their ability to win and make the right plays when needed.
Patrick Mahomes has evolved his game by embracing a more balanced approach, protecting the football, and becoming a master of the mental game, making him a formidable quarterback.
Lamar Jackson's struggle in the AFC Championship game serves as a reminder of the importance of experience, composure, and mental fortitude in high-pressure playoff situations.
Deep dives
Chiefs' Playoff Experience and Mental Composure
The Kansas City Chiefs demonstrated their playoff experience and mental composure in the AFC Championship game. Through years of playoff games and consecutive postseason appearances, the Chiefs have developed a belief in their ability to win. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes has evolved his game, understanding that not every play needs to be a highlight reel moment. The Chiefs' offensive balance and reliance on the running game have allowed Mahomes to let the game come to him. Additionally, Mahomes has shown exceptional command and control at the line of scrimmage, making pre-snap adjustments and putting the offense in the best position to succeed.
Patrick Mahomes' Growth and Adaptation
Patrick Mahomes has demonstrated growth and adaptation in his game throughout his career. He has learned not to force plays and to protect the football, resulting in fewer turnovers. Mahomes has embraced a more balanced approach on offense, relying on the running game and utilizing his legs when necessary. He has become a master of the mental game, making pre-snap adjustments, reading defenses, and controlling the line of scrimmage. Mahomes' ability to make superhuman plays when needed while avoiding negative plays has made him a truly terrifying quarterback to face.
Lamar Jackson's Struggles in the AFC Championship Game
Lamar Jackson had a difficult game in the AFC Championship, struggling to move the ball against the Chiefs' defense. While the Ravens made some defensive adjustments to contain Mahomes, Jackson was unable to find success. His performance highlighted the importance of experience and composure in playoff games. Jackson will continue to grow and develop, but this game serves as a reminder that playoff success is not guaranteed, and mental fortitude is crucial in high-pressure situations.
The Importance of Trusting Instincts and Handling Nervous Energy on Game Day
It is crucial for athletes to trust their instincts and not overthink during games. Nervous energy before big games can affect performance, and different individuals handle it differently. Inexperienced teams often make mistakes under pressure, such as penalties or turnovers. Examples of this can be seen in the interception thrown by Lamar Jackson in the AFC Championship game. A snowball effect can occur when one mistake leads to more, derailing the team's momentum. Players like Drew Brees, known for their calm and routine-oriented approach, can handle big games well.
The Crushing Feeling of Losing a Championship Game
Championship games, such as the NFC Championship game, create a unique and intense atmosphere. The air is filled with nervous energy, knowing that the Super Bowl is just one game away. Losing in championship games can be devastating and potentially worse than a Super Bowl loss. The Saints' heartbreaking loss in the Minneapolis Miracle game illustrates this emotional rollercoaster. The feeling of being so close to greatness and then having it slip away can haunt players and teams. It highlights the difficulty of reaching championship games and the importance of seizing the opportunity when it arises.
Ben Johnson surprised most the football world on Tuesday by deciding to remain with the Lions as their offensive coordinator for at least one more season. And he helpfully did so just moments before Robert Mays and Chase Daniel began recording this week's episode of The Athletic Football Show's In the Pocket. The guys discuss the ripple effects of that decision, the greatness of Patrick Mahomes, the importance of playoff experience, and how the Chiefs were able to completely shut down Lamar Jackson in the AFC Championship Game.
