In a clash that showcased both firepower and grit, Patrick Mahomes led the Kansas City Chiefs to a 26-13 victory over the New Orleans Saints, pushing their record to an impeccable 5-0. With Mahomes throwing for 331 yards and Kareem Hunt adding over 100 yards on the ground, the Chiefs remain a force to be reckoned with, and this win solidified their standing in the NFL as one of the top teams to beat.
It wasn’t all about touchdowns and flashy plays for Mahomes in this contest, as he went 28 for 39 in completions without a touchdown pass, but his ability to move the chains and command the offense was undeniable. The lack of touchdown throws didn’t dull the excitement of the game, as Hunt was more than ready to take up the slack. Hunt’s performance was stellar, with 117 yards from scrimmage on 28 touches, including a rushing touchdown that got the Chiefs rolling in the early minutes.
“We’ve won different ways,” Mahomes reflected after the game, highlighting the versatility of the team. “At the end of the day, our defense is playing their tail off. I think people are starting to realize that even more.” Mahomes’ words ring true, as the Chiefs' defense stepped up significantly, preventing the Saints from ever leading in the game.
Let’s take a look at the numbers: The Chiefs dominated in first downs 28-14 and in total yardage 460-220, a true testament to their command on both sides of the ball. They also held a significant advantage in time of possession, with almost a 20-minute gap. That's huge in a game where control of the clock often dictates the outcome.
The game started off with an electric 10-play, 78-yard touchdown drive by the Chiefs. Hunt’s 5-yard rushing score capped off the drive, giving Kansas City an early lead that they never relinquished. Not long after, Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker added a 26-yard field goal early in the second quarter, extending the Chiefs' lead to 10-0.
But it wasn’t all smooth sailing. Saints quarterback Derek Carr responded, connecting with wide receiver Rashid Shaheed on a spectacular 44-yard touchdown pass just over eight minutes before halftime. Carr’s deep throw seemed to breathe new life into the Saints’ offense, but Butker wasn’t about to let them get too comfortable. The Chiefs’ kicker added two more field goals before halftime, giving Kansas City a comfortable 16-7 lead heading into the locker room.
The third quarter came and went without either team putting points on the board. It was a defensive battle, with both teams locking down key plays. But early in the fourth quarter, Carr made it interesting again, hitting tight end Foster Moreau on a 6-yard touchdown pass just 44 seconds into the final quarter. Suddenly, the game was tight again at 16-13, and the Saints had some momentum.
But the Chiefs were not about to let this one slip away. Rookie speedster Xavier Worthy broke through with a thrilling 3-yard touchdown run with 11:56 left in the game. It was a critical moment, giving Kansas City breathing room at 23-13. Butker later tacked on a 38-yard field goal to seal the victory, adding the final points of the night.
Derek Carr’s night, unfortunately, ended on a sour note as he left the game in the fourth quarter due to an oblique injury. Before he exited, Carr completed 18 of 28 passes for 165 yards with two touchdowns and one interception. The Saints will be anxiously awaiting results from his MRI scheduled for Tuesday, hoping their starting quarterback isn’t sidelined for long.
Carr’s frustration was palpable after the game, as he expressed his desire to stay in and help his team. “I would have done anything to stay out there and keep fighting, but I couldn’t,” he said.
Despite the injury and the loss, the Saints had some bright spots. Wide receiver Rashid Shaheed, who caught four passes for 86 yards and a touchdown, was one of them. Another was running back Alvin Kamara, who managed 66 yards from scrimmage on 17 touches. However, it was clear that Kansas City’s defense had figured out how to limit the Saints' offensive weapons for most of the night.
On the Chiefs’ side, Mahomes spread the ball around effectively, but it was wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster who stood out. Smith-Schuster had seven catches for 130 yards, showcasing his ability to make big plays when it mattered most. Tight end Travis Kelce was also a key target, catching 9 of 10 passes thrown his way for 70 yards.
Speaking of Kelce, there was another figure on the sidelines that grabbed some attention—pop superstar Taylor Swift. Swift, who has been making headlines with her relationship with Kelce, was seen cheering him on throughout the game. Although Kelce didn’t find the end zone, his connection with Mahomes and ability to contribute consistently was evident.
What made this game particularly exciting wasn’t just the stars on the field or in the stands, but the way the Chiefs showcased their complete team effort. It was the kind of game that makes you believe Kansas City is a team built for another deep playoff run. The defense was stifling, Mahomes was sharp, and Hunt’s contributions on the ground were critical. It’s not every day you see a quarterback as talented as Mahomes winning without throwing a single touchdown, and that alone speaks to the depth of this squad.
For the Saints, this loss drops them to 2-3, and they’ll have some work to do as they prepare for their Week 6 matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. With Carr’s status uncertain and a tough opponent ahead, New Orleans will need to regroup quickly. That game kicks off at 1 p.m. EDT on Sunday in the Superdome.
Meanwhile, the Chiefs will enjoy their Week 6 bye, giving them a chance to rest and prepare for the next phase of the season. At 5-0, they’re in prime position, and with Mahomes leading the way, this Kansas City team looks as dangerous as ever.
Login