ss Patrick Mahomes sent the sports world into a frenzy when he suddenly stepped up to defend his mentor, Andy Reid, after Stephen A. Smith criticized the legendary coach as being “past his prime.” In just a few sharp sentences, Mahomes turned a casual on-air remark into the center of a nationwide debate
Kansas City, Missouri – 12/06/2025
Just days before the Chiefs face off against the red-hot Houston Texans in a pivotal Week 14 showdown, Patrick Mahomes stepped up—not just as a quarterback, but as a loyal student defending his coach. With ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith calling Andy Reid “ill-equipped” and suggesting the legendary coach may be past his prime, Mahomes delivered a pointed response that silenced the room.
“If you say he’s past his prime, you clearly don’t understand football,” Mahomes said. “Coach Reid is the reason I’m here. He’s the reason we’re still in this fight. I trust him with everything.”
Stephen A.’s criticism stemmed from the Chiefs’ recent offensive struggles, particularly on the line. With three starters—Trey Smith, Josh Simmons, and Jawaan Taylor—out due to injuries, Mahomes has faced increased pressure. Smith argued that Reid lacked the ability to adjust, referencing past Super Bowl losses where three-man rushes overwhelmed Kansas City’s protection.
“That [Texans] defense is a problem.” 😳@stephenasmith gives his prediction ahead of the Chiefs and Texans facing off in Week 14 ✍️ pic.twitter.com/V9q831PZJH— First Take (@FirstTake) December 3, 2025
But Mahomes wasn’t having it. He highlighted the behind-the-scenes work Reid has done to adjust blocking schemes, utilize tight ends and backs in protection, and revamp the quick-game passing attack. The Chiefs have adapted, and Mahomes credits Reid for that resilience.
“It’s easy to throw shade from a studio,” Mahomes added. “But Coach Reid is here every day, building, solving, leading. We don’t need noise—we need belief. And I’ve got all the belief in the world in him.”
With an 8-4 record, the Chiefs still sit atop the AFC West. But Sunday’s clash with the Texans looms large. Houston’s defense, fresh off an eight-sack performance against Josh Allen, presents a major challenge to Kansas City’s battered front.
Still, Mahomes isn’t backing down. In fact, he seems more motivated than ever to prove the doubters wrong.
“You can count us out if you want,” he said, “but we’ve still got No. 15 under center, and we’ve still got Andy Reid calling plays. That’s a combo I’ll take any day.”
And just like that, Kansas City’s fire is lit—not just by pressure, but by pride.
