Troy Aikman calls out NFL's bias with Patrick Mahomes after Chiefs QB draws penalty while getting sacked by Commanders DT

Troy Aikman highlighted what he considers favorable officiating that Patrick Mahomes receives from NFL referees on Monday. Aikman pointed out what he saw as preferential treatment during ESPN’s broadcast after Mahomes benefited from a late penalty in Kansas City’s 28-7 win over Washington.

Commanders defensive tackle Jer’Zhan Newton was flagged for unnecessary roughness when he threw Mahomes to the ground after the whistle on a fourth-quarter sack attempt. The Chiefs led by three touchdowns.

"It wasn't a lot, but with that said, when it comes to quarterbacks, especially this one, they're going to protect them," Aikman said.

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"When it comes to quarterbacks, especially this one, they’re gonna protect them" – Troy Aikman on Patrick Mahomes

Kansas City didn’t add points on the extended possession but drained precious time off the clock before punting. The play effectively sealed the Chiefs’ third straight victory.

Patrick Mahomes rebounds from rough opening to power second-half surge

NFL: Washington Commanders at Kansas City Chiefs - Source: Imagn

The night began poorly for Patrick Mahomes, opening the game with interceptions on Kansas City’s first two drives. One pass slipped through Travis Kelce's hands before landing in a defender’s arms, and another came on a mistimed throw across the middle.

Despite the miscues, the Chiefs regrouped after halftime with the score tied 7-7. Kansas City coach Andy Reid called the first half “weird,” noting the unusual rhythm of turnovers and quick drives from both teams. Mahomes responded by leading three consecutive touchdown marches.

The star quarterback completed 25 of 34 passes for 299 yards and three touchdowns to offset the early mistakes.

"It shows the growth that we've had as a team," Mahomes said after the game, via ESPN.

"Offense, defense and special teams, I think we're getting better and better each and every week. Even though we didn't start the way we wanted to today offensively, it showed that we can battle through adversity and still continue to play the brand of football that we want to play."

The win pushed the Chiefs to 5-3, marking five victories in their last six games since their 0-2 start. They’ll visit Buffalo next week to face Josh Allen and the Bills before traveling to Denver and a home date with Indianapolis following their bye.