Patrick Mahomes Praises Kicker Harrison Butker After Chiefs’ Narrow Victory Over Bengals: “I Just Have to Cross the 50, and Harrison is Going to Knock it Through”
Kansas City, MO — In a press conference on Sunday, Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes gave a glowing endorsement of kicker Harrison Butker after the Chiefs clinched a narrow victory against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 2 of the NFL season. The Chiefs’ 27-24 win was a hard-fought battle, but the star quarterback highlighted the vital role of his kicker in securing the team’s win, stating, “I just have to cross the 50, and Harrison is going to knock it through.”
A Tense Matchup Against the Bengals
The Week 2 matchup between the Kansas City Chiefs and Cincinnati Bengals was a nail-biting contest, reminiscent of last season’s AFC Championship Game, where the Bengals had the upper hand. The Chiefs, however, were determined to rewrite the script this time.
From the very first quarter, it was clear that both teams were determined to come out victorious. Mahomes, as usual, led the Chiefs’ offense with precision and poise, despite facing a determined Bengals defense that refused to make it easy for him. He finished the game with 320 passing yards, two touchdowns, and an interception. Meanwhile, Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow also played an impressive game, passing for 287 yards and three touchdowns, but it wasn’t enough to outlast the Chiefs’ overall effort.
With both teams trading blows, the game ultimately came down to who could execute better in key moments. And for the Chiefs, that key moment came on the leg of Harrison Butker.
Mahomes’ Trust in Harrison Butker
During the press conference, Mahomes expressed how much confidence he has in Butker, who once again proved to be one of the most reliable kickers in the league. “I just have to cross the 50, and I know Harrison is going to knock it through. It’s a great feeling as a quarterback,” Mahomes said with a smile, emphasizing the ease of mind he has knowing Butker’s consistency.
Mahomes added, “It takes a lot of pressure off me and the entire offense. You know, when you’re in those clutch situations, having a guy like Harrison is a game-changer. I feel like if we get the ball within range, we’re going to walk away with points, and that’s a luxury not every team has.”
Butker’s contribution in the game wasn’t just an afterthought—it was decisive. With the game tied at 24-24 in the closing minutes, the Chiefs were forced to drive down the field, aiming to set up a game-winning field goal. Mahomes orchestrated a methodical drive, getting the Chiefs into field goal range just past the Bengals’ 50-yard line.
As expected, Butker delivered. The 45-yard field goal he nailed with 10 seconds left on the clock sealed the victory for Kansas City and sent the home crowd into a frenzy.
A Clutch Performer
Harrison Butker’s performance on Sunday wasn’t just a one-off occurrence; he’s developed a reputation as one of the most clutch kickers in the NFL. Butker has consistently demonstrated an ability to come through when his team needs him most.
Sunday’s game-winning kick was Butker’s fifth career game-winning field goal, a stat that Mahomes made sure to mention during his post-game remarks. “Harrison’s been doing this for a long time. He’s not just a guy that can hit long kicks, he’s a guy that thrives in pressure situations, and we’re lucky to have him,” Mahomes said.
Butker, who finished the game with three successful field goals, including the game-winner, was humble as ever during his own post-game interview. “I just try to stay focused on my technique and trust the guys around me,” Butker said. “Patrick did a great job getting us in position, and I’m just happy to help the team win.”
Looking Ahead
The Chiefs’ win over the Bengals not only avenged their previous loss in the AFC Championship but also set the tone for what looks to be another promising season for Kansas City. Mahomes, who has grown used to making headlines for his outstanding play, was quick to credit his teammates, saying, “We’ve got a great group of guys. Everybody plays their part, and that’s what makes this team special.”
As the Chiefs prepare for Week 3, Mahomes and the rest of the team will undoubtedly carry the confidence of this hard-fought win with them. And while much of the focus will remain on Mahomes’ MVP-level performances, it’s clear that the Chiefs’ success is built on the contributions of key players like Butker.
Whether it’s making game-winning throws or game-winning kicks, this Kansas City team seems poised for another deep playoff run, with Mahomes at the helm and Butker waiting in the wings to deliver when it counts.
Final Score: Kansas City Chiefs 27, Cincinnati Bengals 24
