Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes fail to connect, and the quarterback takes responsibility for the play

Travis Kelce took center stage again, but this time not in the way fans expected. Although the Kansas City Chiefs secured their first win of the 2025/26 season with a 22-9 victory over the New York Giants, warning signs in the offense were evident.

Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce, historically the team’s most reliable duo, struggled to connect, leaving fans and analysts questioning whether the chemistry between the quarterback and his star tight end is beginning to fade.

Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes: Is Chiefs chemistry faltering?

During the game, Mahomes threw for 224 yards and a touchdown, but his completion percentage barely reached 59.5%.

He was sacked twice and fumbled once, though he fortunately recovered the ball. Travis Kelce, meanwhile, totaled only 26 yards on four receptions out of seven targets.

This limited connection hindered Kansas City ability to sustain offensive drives, forcing the team to rely almost exclusively on Harrison Butker’s field goals to maintain the lead.

Chiefs offense still searching for rhythm

Travis Kelce appeared out of sync with Mahomes, and his routes seemed off timing, preventing the offense from reaching its expected rhythm.

What happened here?

Pat Mahomes & Travis Kelce still trying to find their connection. #Chiefs

Nonetheless KC has their kicker. Chiefs up 3-0. pic.twitter.com/9SlbAjIQ3Y

— JosinaAnderson (@JosinaAnderson) September 22, 2025

Despite contributions from other receivers, the historic reliance on the Mahomes-Kelce duo was clear. The offense averaged just 4.6 yards per play, far below the standards Kansas City fans have come to expect.

Andy Reid and Matt Nagy are still searching for solutions, trying to recapture the magic that led the team to past Super Bowl appearances.

Still, not everything was negative. Tyquan Thornton emerged as an unexpected factor, recording five receptions for 71 yards and a key touchdown.

His performance provided the spark Mahomes and the Chiefs needed, showing that even though Travis Kelce didn’t find his best rhythm, the team can still produce decisive plays.

What’s next for Travis Kelce and the Chiefs?

The question of the connection between Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes will remain a central storyline for the Chiefs this season.

Restoring the chemistry between the quarterback and his star tight end will be crucial if Kansas City hopes to contend for the Super Bowl again.