Former Heisman winner Robert Griffin III calls out Patrick Mahomes & Co. after they deny Joe Burrow’s Bengals a playoff spot
The Chiefs’ victory not only secured their own playoff positioning but also shut the door on the Bengals, who had been fighting for a last-minute postseason berth despite Burrow being sidelined with an injury for much of the season. While many praised Kansas City for their dominant performance, Griffin took issue with how they handled the win.
Taking to social media, Griffin suggested that the Chiefs could have approached the game differently, implying that Mahomes and company showed no mercy to an injury-riddled Bengals squad. “The Chiefs had nothing to gain from this win, but everything to take from the Bengals,” Griffin wrote. “That’s not what champions do.”
His comments immediately sent shockwaves through the NFL community. Some fans agreed, believing that Kansas City had already secured their playoff future and could have eased up. Others, however, were quick to push back, arguing that professional football is a ruthless sport where no team owes another a helping hand.
Kelce, known for his fiery personality, responded to the criticism with a blunt rebuttal. “This is the NFL, not charity work,” he stated. “We play to win every single game, no matter who’s on the other side.” Mahomes echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that their job is to compete, not to worry about another team’s playoff hopes.
Griffin’s remarks also reignited debates about the Bengals-Chiefs rivalry, which has become one of the most heated matchups in recent years. Cincinnati had previously been a thorn in Kansas City’s side, beating them multiple times, including in the AFC Championship Game two years ago. Some believe the Chiefs took extra satisfaction in eliminating their rival from playoff contention.
Joe Burrow, despite being out with injury, also reacted to the loss with disappointment but refused to make excuses. “We had our chances this season, and we didn’t capitalize,” Burrow admitted. “No one is going to do us any favors.” His mature response drew respect from fans, even as emotions ran high.
Griffin’s comments, however, have sparked a bigger conversation about sportsmanship in the NFL. Should teams ease up on struggling opponents, or is the nature of professional football one where every game is a battle, regardless of the stakes? For the Chiefs, the answer is clear: they’re here to win, no matter who it affects.
With the playoffs now set, the Chiefs have their eyes on another Super Bowl run. As for the Bengals, they’ll have to regroup and wait until next season for another shot. But one thing is certain—this rivalry is far from over, and the next Mahomes vs. Burrow showdown will be even more intense.
