Sunday’s gonna be a showdown, folks. We’re talking about the 14th time Patrick Mahomes steps onto the field knowing Maxx Crosby is out there gunning for him, and this time, it’s against a surprising Las Vegas Raiders squad that’s currently sitting pretty at 3-0.
Mahomes’ Unshakeable Respect for a Relentless Foe
When you hear Mahomes talk about someone, you listen, especially when it’s about the guy who’s sacked him six times and hit him 16 times in their career matchups. Speaking before Wednesday’s practice, Mahomes didn’t hold back his admiration for Crosby. “He’s one of the best competitors in the league,” Mahomes said, and you can feel the truth in that. The respect comes from a “mutual want to be the best on the field.” Mahomes knows that when he faces Crosby, it “brings out the best in you.” He respects “how he plays the game of football, how he competes, and the man that he is.” This isn’t just lip service. Mahomes knows he’ll “need my best because he’s going to bring his best,” and that’s when you get those legendary games. This isn’t just a rivalry; it’s a battle for bragging rights every single snap.
The Silver and Black’s Surprising Start
While the Chiefs being among the final five undefeated teams might not shock too many, the Raiders rolling into Week 4 at 3-0? That’s definitely got some people raising eyebrows, especially after they had the first overall pick in April’s NFL Draft. But Mahomes isn’t surprised by the talent level he sees. He credits the Raiders for bringing in “a lot of guys that are really good football players” and adding “young, talented guys” to the mix. It all “starts with Maxx and their defensive line,” Mahomes noted, emphasizing their ability to “protect and be able to run the ball.” He sees a team with “great players everywhere” who “fly to the football.” That kind of talent, combined with a competitor like Crosby, can definitely turn a team around fast.
A Motivation That Burns Brighter Than Ever
There was a moment last offseason when it looked like Crosby was headed to the Baltimore Ravens, only for the trade to fall through due to injury concerns after his physical. Mahomes, ever the competitor, even acknowledged this weird situation. “It was surprising to me just knowing who he is and the way he competes,” Mahomes remarked about the Ravens pulling out. You can bet that situation, plus Crosby “coming off injury as well,” is fueling the fire for the Raiders’ star defender. Mahomes knows Crosby will “use that as motivation,” and honestly, who wouldn’t? This Sunday, the Chiefs will need to “execute at a high level” because they know Crosby and his revitalized Raiders squad are coming with everything they’ve got. It’ll be a “great challenge” and something to be truly excited for.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Arrowhead Pride.
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