NFL quarterback Patrick Mahomes faces criticism for alleged special treatment, with Dave Portnoy publicly condemning a perceived "cheap shot" in a renewedoutburst of fan fury.

Kansas City Chiefs Kick Off 2025 Season with a Loss to the Los Angeles Chargers

The Kansas City Chiefs' 2025 season got off to a rocky start, as they suffered a 27-21 defeat against the Los Angeles Chargers in their opening game. The loss marks the second time in three years that the Chiefs have started the season with a 0-1 record, having lost to the Detroit Lions in their 2023 season opener.

The game was not without controversy, as NFL fans and media personalities, including Dave Portnoy, criticized Patrick Mahomes for a potential "cheap shot" play in the third quarter. During the play, Mahomes appeared to move his shoulder in the direction of Chargers cornerback Ja'Sir Taylor as he ran out of bounds at the 31-yard line. Despite the criticism, Mahomes avoided a flag for unnecessary roughness after the play.

In the first half, the Chiefs struggled to find their rhythm, with Mahomes stating that they didn't execute and didn't play well enough. Wide receiver Xavier Worthy was taken out by teammate Travis Kelce on the first drive of the game, and the Chiefs trailed 14-3 at halftime.

However, the Chiefs mounted a comeback in the second half, with Travis Kelce scoring a touchdown that brought the team within two points. Mahomes finished the game having thrown for 258 yards and rushed for a team-leading 57 yards. Wide receiver Mecole Hardman Jr. also had a strong performance, with 106 receiving yards and a touchdown.

Justin Herbert, the Chargers' quarterback, had a standout game, with 318 passing yards and three touchdowns. Chargers-Headcoach Brandon Staley called Patrick Mahomes' move a "dirty trick," while Herbert argued that Mahomes should not have been penalized with an illegal forward pass.

The Chiefs' 2025 season will see them play at their iconic Arrowhead Stadium against the Philadelphia Eagles, Baltimore Ravens, and Detroit Lions. The Chiefs' home slate to start the season will be tough, with a rematch against the reigning champions Philadelphia Eagles next up at their Arrowhead Stadium. The Chiefs will look to bounce back from their loss and mount a bid for glory in the 2025 season.

NFL quarterback Patrick Mahomes faces criticism for alleged special treatment, with Dave Portnoy publicly condemning a perceived "cheap shot" in a renewedoutburst of fan fury.