Bengals’ Joe Burrow Praises Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes as ‘1-of-1’ Before Week 2 Matchup

Zach BacharContributor ISeptember 13, 2024

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Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow discussed his respect for Kansas City Chiefs signal-caller Patrick Mahomes ahead of a Week 2 clash between the teams.

“Pat is one of one,” Burrow told reporters on Wednesday. “He’s really, really exceptional at extending a play, throwing on the move, trying to buy that extra tick for his guys to get open, and really understands the game. So, it’s always a big challenge going up against him.”

NFL on CBS 🏈 @NFLonCBSJoe Burrow calls Patrick Mahomes “1 of 1” ahead of their Week 2 matchup. pic.twitter.com/edR62axQk4

At 28 years old, Mahomes has already established himself as one of the most accomplished quarterbacks in NFL history. He has six Pro Bowl nods and two MVPs under his belt, leading the Chiefs to three Super Bowl titles.

Kansas City has hoisted the Lombardi Trophy in each of the past two seasons and are now attempting to become the first team in NFL history to win the Super Bowl in three consecutive years.

Mahomes hasn’t lost in the playoffs since the 2021 season, when he fell to Burrow and the Bengals in the AFC Championship Game. The No. 1 overall pick in the 2020 NFL draft has been one of the few passers that has a winning head-to-head record against the Chiefs star, owning a 3-1 advantage in their four meetings.

The Chiefs have gained the upper hand in the rivalry as of late, defeating Cincinnati in the AFC Championship Game in the 2022 season. The Chiefs also took down the Bengals in Week 17 of their 2023 campaign, but Burrow didn’t suit up due to a wrist injury.

NFL @NFLBUTKER GIVES THE @CHIEFS THE LEAD. #CINvsKC pic.twitter.com/VOeIUlSRwI

Despite their clashes throughout the past few seasons, the 27-year-old detailed their cordial relationship off the field.

“We’ve obviously talked to each other after the games, see each other at certain places over the years,” Burrow said on Wednesday, per Geoff Hobson of the team’s official website. “I like Patrick as a person. I like talking to him and talking ball and talking about the game.”

Kansas City is attempting to move to 2-0 after beating the Baltimore Ravens in Week 1, while Cincinnati is looking to bounce back from a disappointing season-opening loss to the New England Patriots.

Kickoff between the two teams is on Sunday at 4:25 p.m. ET.