Patrick Mahomes erupts: criticizes Brian Branch after the controversial slap on JuJu Smith-Schuster

Patrick Mahomes experienced an emotional Sunday in the Kansas City Chiefs 30-17 victory over the Detroit Lions, but not all of it happened on the field.

At the end of the game, safety Brian Branch ran up to JuJu Smith-Schuster and slapped him after he had refused to shake the Chiefs quarterback’s hand.

Patrick Mahomes, visibly surprised by the incident, commented in his postgame interview: “I mean, we play between whistles. They can do all the extracurricular activities they want, but we play between whistles.”

Patrick Mahomes defends the integrity of the game after postgame incidents

Despite the tension, Patrick Mahomes had an outstanding game with four touchdowns, one rushing and three passing.

Marquise Brown caught two of those passes in the second half, while Xavier Worthy secured the other, showing the chemistry Mahomes maintains with his receivers.

NBC’s Melissa Stark: “What just happened there at the end of the game?”

Patrick Mahomes: “I mean, we play the game in between the whistles. They can do all the extracurricular stuff they want to do, but we play the game in between the whistles.” 🏈🎙️ #NFL https://t.co/pIkIXwPYP4 pic.twitter.com/TGGaQIUJDq

— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) October 13, 2025

Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid highlight the offensive line’s work

After the game, Patrick Mahomes not only addressed the controversial incident, but also praised his offensive line for protecting him throughout the game.

“The offensive line did a great job keeping me protected so I could read the plays on the field,” Mahomes said, singling out Jaylon Moore.

The left tackle stepped in at the last minute after rookie Josh Simmons’ absence and allowed only one sack against Aidan Hutchinson.

Patrick Mahomes said he had “all the faith in the world” in Moore and highlighted his professionalism and readiness.

Head coach Andy Reid agreed with Mahomes, emphasizing the group’s physicality and discipline.

The win over the Lions not only solidified the Chiefs offense, but also demonstrated Patrick resilience and leadership in tense situations, both on and off the field.

With eyes on their next opponent, the Las Vegas Raiders, Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs prepare for a crucial matchup on October 19 at 12 p.m. CT on CBS, leaving fans eager to see how the quarterback will manage his leadership this season.