As two NFL teams, the Commanders and the Chiefs, gear up for their respective conference championship games, a unique bond related to Texas Tech football emerges. Commanders offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury and Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes share a significant history that dates back to their time together at Texas Tech.
Kingsbury, who played for the Red Raiders from 1998 to 2002, took the helm as head coach in December 2012. He quickly recognized the potential of Mahomes, who was a three-star quarterback recruit at that time. Kingsbury’s attention was drawn to Mahomes after reviewing his high school tape, and he aggressively recruited him, stating, “We went after him hard and knew that we needed to get him.”
Mahomes joined Kingsbury at Texas Tech in 2014, and while the team had challenges that first year, his talent was undeniable. In his freshman season, he started seven games, threw for 1,547 yards, 16 touchdowns, and just four interceptions. His subsequent years were highlighted by astounding statistics, including leading the nation with 5,052 yards and 41 touchdowns in 2016. In an extraordinary matchup against Oklahoma that same year, Mahomes set several NCAA records, showcasing his remarkable ability to extend plays and deliver in high-pressure situations.
Despite his stellar performances and record-setting achievements, Mahomes never received a Heisman nomination, a situation attributed largely to Texas Tech’s inconsistent performance as a team during his final seasons. Nonetheless, his skills were evident, and he declared for the NFL draft following his junior year.
Kliff Kingsbury’s time as head coach at Texas Tech came to an end in 2018 after a series of underwhelming seasons, but he quickly transitioned to the NFL, first with the Arizona Cardinals, and then as an offensive analyst at USC before joining the Commanders. His offensive strategies, partly influenced by the Air Raid offense he learned under Mike Leach, continue to resonate in his current role, blending elements of the offense into the Commanders’ playbook.
This connection between Kingsbury and Mahomes offers a nostalgic look back at their successful partnership at Texas Tech, a place where Mahomes developed into the superstar he is today. As they prepare for the playoffs, their shared history underlines the importance of mentorship and the lasting impact of college football on professional careers.
As for the NFL playoffs, both teams are under the spotlight, driving excitement among fans as they chase championship glory. Their journeys continue to highlight how foundational relationships can influence success on the grand stage of professional football.