Kansas City Chiefs have dominated recent series with Broncos

Dec. 31, 2017 — Kansas City 27, Denver 24

Mahomes finished the game 22-of-35 for 284 yards and an interception. More importantly, he got the win, and in turn, cracked open the door to the future.

Patrick Mahomes most likely wasn’t nervous for his first NFL game. After all, having a father who pitched in the MLB for 11 years means you grew up in the clubhouse. Mahomes had been around professional athletes his whole life, so being star struck when he started on the road in Week 17 against the Broncos last year was out of the question.

Mahomes sounded like a cliched veteran after leading the Chiefs to a victory on that cold December night, per the Associated Press.

"“You always have to be ready,” Mahomes said. “All season long, it’s kind of been the same thing — you have to make sure you’re ready to go at any moment.”"

Denver All-Pro linebacker Von Miller knew then what everyone knows now.

"“He’s great,” Miller said. “He’s the quarterback of the future for the Chiefs.”"

Although he didn’t throw a touchdown, Mahomes did connect with Demetrius Harris on a 51-yard pass on his opening drive. After giving way to third stringer Tyler Bray with Kansas City up 24-10, he re-entered the game when the Broncos battled back, eventually leading his team on a game-winning field goal drive as time expired.

The final drive lasted 11 plays and came after Mahomes was sacked on the first play. His calm demeanor on the field was a sign of things to come for a player so seasoned in what is essentially his rookie year.