Kansas City Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes remains a compelling candidate in the NFL MVP race, despite facing some challenges this season. With his unique playmaking ability and a crucial upcoming schedule, the quarterback is looking to regain momentum and solidify his standing among the league’s elite.

Nov 17, 2024; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) runs with the ball against Buffalo Bills defensive end Greg Rousseau (50) during the second half at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images

Following Week 11 of the NFL season, Mahomes finds himself in a challenging position after Kansas City suffered their first loss to the Buffalo Bills. This defeat not only impacted the Chiefs’ undefeated streak but also altered the landscape of the MVP race, where the quarterback was previously a frontrunner.

In the high-stakes matchup against the Bills, the QB struggled to find his rhythm. He threw an interception on his first pass, a sign of the difficulties that would plague him throughout the game. With a final stat line of 23 completions on 33 attempts for 196 yards, three touchdowns, and two interceptions, it was a performance that fell short of the standards expected from a two-time MVP.

The game’s turning point came when the Bills opted for a bold fourth-down conversion, which resulted in a touchdown that effectively sealed the win. Mahomes, typically known for his late-game heroics, was unable to mount a comeback against a Bills defense that consistently pressured him. This loss has raised questions about the Chiefs’ offense and whether they can regain their earlier form.

Despite this setback, the Kansas City star remains a significant figure in the MVP conversation. His season stats—2,404 passing yards, 15 touchdowns, and an efficiency rating of 90.3—still reflect his elite talent. However, the pressure is on him to rebound, especially as the team looks to solidify their playoff positioning.

Kansas City Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes Receives Interesting NFL MVP Odds

Even though Kansas City remains one of the top contenders in the league, Mahomes isn’t a lock to win MVP this season. This is explained more in Brooke Pryor’s analysis for ESPN.

Current odds: +1200
2024 stats: 2,404 passing yards, 15 TDs, 11 INTs, 67 QBR (167 rushing yards, 1 TD)

Is it even an MVP discussion without Mahomes? Though the Chiefs quarterback has been, dare we say, pedestrian — at least by his standards — he is undeniably a key factor in his team’s one-loss start. With 11 interceptions to 15 touchdowns this season — including two picks and three scores in the loss to the Bills — Mahomes is on pace to post a career-high 18 interceptions and a career-low 25 touchdown passes.

The quarterback remains a central figure in the MVP conversation despite a season marked by inconsistency. With 2,404 passing yards, 15 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions, his performance has fallen short of his usual standards, leading to speculation about his potential for a career-high in interceptions.

However, Mahomes continues to be a vital part of the Kansas City Chiefs’ success, especially as he adapts to playing without his top receivers. As the season progresses, a strong finish could reignite his MVP candidacy and solidify his legacy.