Football is more than just a game; it's a rollercoaster of emotions where some teams become widely admired, you could say beloved, while others are dubbed villains.  The AFC Championship Game ended with the Chiefs as the winners.  Travis Kelce, a tight end for the Chiefs, embraced the villain role which many fans gave to his team.  However, the quarterback Patrick Mahomes didn't share Kelce's enthusiasm.

Mahomes clarified that the Chiefs aren’t “villains” in their own minds. They see themselves as passionate and heartfelt players who win games fair and square.  Being no sleazy or shady, the team wins as a result of their hard work and obtaining high level skills. If this results in them being called villains by others, they are content to accept it if it means continuing to win.  They don't make attempts to try to convince others to support them.

If the Chiefs and their loyal fans failed to win its 3rd Super Bowl, the villains tag could be much more popular and the criticism would be delivered even harder. The playoff was full of ups and downs, but the Chiefs maintained their cool and walked away with the win.  Patrick Mahomes didn't bring up the officiating during the playoff games, but others in the league picked up on the topic.

After the AFC Championship Game, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell was asked about the officiating. His response “it’s just a ridiculous theory” made headlines.

It can be hard to remember that behind the players and the refs, the teams are a collection of passionate people with dreams to conquer the world.  If watching the sport doesn’t excite you right now, try staying neutral and wait for the next game.  However, the next time your favorite team is on the losing end or is being judged by others, think twice before joining in the criticism.  The sport is only as good as the fans who back both good and bad days all the way!  After all, everybody wants to be seen as the good guys, but so does every team.

Critics may say whatever they want.  The Chiefs victories bring a lot of criticism, but the team must stay focused, use all their passion and skill. This will give everyone more opportunities to win the Super Bowl.

The Chiefs as villains? The team hasn't given up.  The squad is known for their amazing talent and skills. Players play with toughness and determination, no doubt about that. They're not likely to change significantly. The team will keep on fighting and try to do its best, to the last quarter and the last second!

Super Bowl Underdogs?

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