In a recent statement, Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes addressed the controversial penalty decisions during their playoff victory over the Houston Texans. Mahomes emphasized that he does not perceive any undue favoritism from officiating crews, asserting that he is focused solely on playing football. He acknowledged the challenges referees face in maintaining fairness, stating, 'The referees are doing their best to call the game as fair and as proper as they can.' In the game, the Texans incurred eight penalties totaling 82 yards, while the Chiefs were penalized four times for 29 yards, leading to questions about whether Mahomes received special treatment.

Mahomes pointed out that regardless of the outcomes on the field, discussions about officiating often emerge, particularly if a team continues to win. He remarked, 'I've kind of learned that no matter what happens during the game, that something's going to come out about it if you win and you continue to win.' Highlighting specific calls, Mahomes noted a roughing-the-passer penalty against Texan defensive end Will Anderson, which extended a critical drive. He added that players must adapt to the rules, especially when it comes to contact with quarterbacks who choose to slide, a point emphasized by Texans linebacker Henry To'oTo'o, who expressed disagreement with the penalties that altered the game's flow.