Patrick Mahomes, QB, Texas Tech: 2016 Preview Report

Patrick Mahomes was one of the bright spots for an up and down Texas Tech football team. He became a late starter in his freshman season and showed his ability by tossing 14 touchdowns to only 2 interceptions in the final three games of the year. 2015 brought more hope for the freshman standout and he didn’t disappoint. Unfortunately, the Red Raiders as a whole needed more help than what the quarterback position could offer and they tumbled to a 7-6 record. Mahomes had his share of mistakes in that record but he was also electric when they needed him most. It’s not often that you get players who can turn the tide of a game in a single play the way Mahomes can. He should be considered a dark horse for the Heisman trophy this year, but he’ll need to improve on a few key items before that can become a reality.

Dec 29, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders quarterback Patrick Mahomes (5) passes against the LSU Tigers at NRG Stadium. LSU won 56 to 27. Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports /

Name: Patrick Mahomes

Position: QB

School: Texas Tech

Height: 6’3

Weight: 220

2015 Season Stats: 4,653 passing yards, 63.5% completion percentage, 36 touchdowns, 15 interceptions; 456 rushing yards, 10 rushing touchdowns

What to like…

Mahomes has great size for the position. At 6’3 and 220 pounds, Mahomes athleticism gives him the build to be a solid dual threat and the size to push the pile if needed. What Mahomes does best is his ability to keep the play alive. Playing in a spread system subjects the quarterback to an increase in pressure and can often times cause error in judgment because of quick releases and short routes. Mahomes does a great job of buying time in the pocket and giving his receivers a chance to run their routes down field. Another key asset of his would be arm strength. Mahomes has one of the strongest arms in college football and it can be seen on a weekly basis. As a raw prospect theres a lot to like and love about Patrick Mahomes, but there are a few areas he needs improvement on.

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What needs work…

Mahomes is a streaky player. When things are good, he’s on top of it but when things take a turn for the worst you can often see Mahomes making questionable decisions and losing his touch. That being said, none of his stats are consistent. He may throw for five touchdowns in one game and turn around with a four interception performance the next. A lot of Mahomes mistakes can be contributed to his lack of footwork. While many look at arm strength and accuracy as diagnoses of a quarterback, it’s really footwork and stability. Mahomes makes a lot of throws off balance and with god awful footwork, often times resulting in wild passes and relying on the receiver to make a play. His footwork alone will raise red flags far before the draft process begins.

Outlook

Aside from his footwork, Mahomes has enough talent within himself and around him to win football games. If Texas Tech can develop a defensive presence while letting their quarterback deliver an aerial assault, this team could potentially be in great shape to be a top 25 team. For Mahomes, he would be wise to play until his senior year in terms of draft stock, however, with a weak quarterback class it’s possible he jumps at the opportunity this year. He has a lot of potential but he’s still a work in progress if he’s going to be someone’s franchise quarterback.

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