Patrick Mahomes delivered a standout performance to lead the Kansas City Chiefs to a 35-13 victory over the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
The win allowed the Chiefs to reclaim first place in the AFC West on a tiebreaker, according to “reporting from Yahoo Sports.”
Mahomes threw a season-high five touchdown passes during the contest.
The team was forced to adjust its roster due to a groin injury sustained by running back Kenneth Walker III, who was “missing from the lineup” for the game.
Fourth-round rookie backup Emmett Johnson replaced Walker and recorded 163 yards from scrimmage.
Johnson scored two touchdowns and rushed for 93 yards, while also catching six passes for 70 yards.
He capped the opening drive with a 12-yard touchdown reception.
Tight end Travis Kelce also dealt with an injury scare during the game after he was tackled by Atlanta safety DeMarcco Hellams.
The incident occurred on Kelce’s first catch, a 23-yard gain, as the defender rolled up on the 37-year-old player, “according to the injury report.”
Kelce left the field under his own power but walked with a noticeable limp toward the locker room.
The team initially listed the veteran as questionable to return due to an ankle injury.
Kelce eventually returned to the game with 7:05 remaining in the second quarter.
The catch marked his 200th consecutive game with at least one reception.
The victory was a necessary outcome for the Chiefs as they navigated personnel shifts.
Mahomes relied on various contributors to secure the win in Atlanta.
The performance underscored the team’s ability to adapt to sudden changes in the active roster.
Kansas City remains in contention for the division title following the decisive win over the Falcons.