Patrick Mahomes, known for his innovative style on the football field, often experimented with new plays and mechanics during the Kansas City Chiefs’ special teams period, turning it into his personal creative laboratory. Initial experiments involved contemplating about executing a behind-the-back pass, which he indeed tried in a preseason game. This creative process has been encouraged by Chiefs coach Andy Reid, fostering a powerful and successful partnership between the two, reflected in the team’s record-breaking performances.
Andy Reid, known to foster a creative and boundary-pushing environment, has contributed towards preparing Mahomes to excel not just as a quarterback but as a visionary of the sport as well. Since their initial practices in 2017, Reid has consistently encouraged Mahomes to push the limits of his craft, including making high-risk plays and complex throws. This dynamic has promoted creative energy between the two, allowing them to harness their respective skills and talents to their maximum potential.
Players and coaches observed Reid’s unique process of creating and experimenting with new plays, often seen scribbling potential game plans and maneuvers on a piece of paper. This not only enhanced the complexity of the game but also allowed players to contribute their own ideas and suggestions. The mutualistic approach exemplified by Reid inspired Mahomes to get comfortable with creating plays by himself.
Known for adopting unconventional plays, the Chiefs have borrowed ideas from various sources during Reid’s time with the team. Schwartz, a former Chiefs offensive lineman, credits Reid’s observant nature for the team’s unusual strategies as the coach keenly followed Mahomes’ fun and experimental practices, transforming them into effective plays. One such collaboration resulted in the “Circle of Death” or “Arctic Circle”, a trick play that involved a spin before the huddle break.
Mahomes’ creativity and talent allowed any idea to seem like a good one. The skilled quarterback successfully lobbied for the introduction of an underhand shovel pass and practiced snaps-on-the-run with Center Austin Reiter, leading to the incorporation of such plays during matches. Reid’s approach towards experimenting while remaining grounded encouraged and facilitated other coaches and players to contribute to the creative process.
Mahomes and Reid’s partnership was strengthened by the collaborative creativity that fostered an environment of learning rather than tension. When Mahomes voiced his disapproval of a play in the game plan, Reid immediately crossed it off, highlighting the trust and independence given to his players. This effective synergy between Reid and Mahomes has been their key to success, with the coach passing the figurative keys to his quarterback during crucial match moments. They have a unique way of blending creativity with strategy which is reflected in their victories.
