Raiders Get Their First Shot to Implement the ‘Mahomes Rules’
The Las Vegas Raiders are gearing up for a pivotal matchup that will serve as their first opportunity to test out their version of the “Mahomes Rules.” This term references the specific strategies aimed at containing Kansas City Chiefs superstar quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who has proven to be a nightmare for defenses across the league.
For years, teams have scrambled to find ways to slow down Mahomes’ combination of agility, deep-ball accuracy, and his uncanny ability to make plays under pressure. With Mahomes leading the Chiefs to multiple AFC Championship appearances and a Super Bowl victory, AFC West teams are constantly looking for ways to adjust to his style. The Raiders are no exception. They’ve crafted a defensive blueprint that’s not just about slowing down Mahomes, but limiting his playmaking opportunities and forcing him into uncomfortable situations.
Here’s how the Raiders plan to implement their ‘Mahomes Rules’:
1. Rushing with Discipline
Unlike many quarterbacks, Mahomes thrives under pressure and frequently makes throws on the run. However, the Raiders have acknowledged that simply blitzing Mahomes won’t work. Instead, they aim to control their pass rush lanes, creating a disciplined pocket around him to limit his scrambling options. By collapsing the pocket without giving him an easy escape route, they aim to force Mahomes to make throws from uncomfortable spots.
2. Prioritizing Man Coverage with Safety Help
The Chiefs’ explosive offense often relies on Mahomes connecting with his receivers for chunk yardage plays. The Raiders’ approach includes a tight man-to-man defense backed by safety support to counter Mahomes’ downfield prowess. This tactic aims to minimize big plays, particularly to deep threats, and force Mahomes to rely on shorter, more conservative throws.
3. Containing Travis Kelce
While Mahomes is the head of the Chiefs’ offense, tight end Travis Kelce has been his most consistent target. The Raiders know that shutting down Kelce is key to implementing the Mahomes Rules successfully. Double-teaming Kelce, particularly on third downs, and mixing up coverage looks will be essential to keeping him in check.
4. Winning the Turnover Battle
A major part of the Mahomes Rules is capitalizing on mistakes. Although Mahomes rarely turns the ball over, the Raiders aim to put him in high-pressure situations where he may be forced into hurried decisions. Securing interceptions or stripping the ball could be game-changing.
5. Time of Possession on Offense
The best defense against Mahomes is to keep him off the field. Raiders head coach Josh McDaniels has emphasized ball control on offense. By keeping drives alive and managing the clock, the Raiders can limit Mahomes’ opportunities to take the field and disrupt the game flow in favor of Las Vegas.
Building Momentum in the AFC West
The Raiders know that dethroning the Chiefs in the AFC West requires more than just one great game—it requires a sustainable plan. Implementing the Mahomes Rules, even if it doesn’t result in an immediate victory, could signal a larger shift in their approach to challenging Kansas City’s divisional dominance.
Can the Raiders Execute the Mahomes Rules?
The challenge is clear: Mahomes and the Chiefs have dominated the division for years. However, if the Raiders can effectively implement these defensive strategies, they have a chance to stymie Mahomes, disrupt his playmaking, and edge closer to a victory. The AFC West has long been Mahomes’ playground, but the Raiders’ Mahomes Rules could be their ticket to leveling the playing field
