Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs faced a disappointing defeat in Super Bowl LIX, prompting a reevaluation of discussions surrounding the greatest quarterback. ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith pushed for Joe Montana to be re-included in this debate following Mahomes’ lackluster performance. The legendary Montana, who led the San Francisco 49ers throughout the 1980s, boasted an impressive Super Bowl record, achieving a perfect 4-0 with 11 touchdowns and no interceptions in four appearances (1981, 1984, 1988, and 1989).
Smith emphasized the need to bring Montana back into the conversation, highlighting his stellar Super Bowl stats alongside Tom Brady’s accolades. “You’re talking about Tom Brady, with a 7-3 record, which speaks for itself, but we need to consider Joe Montana because of what we witnessed yesterday,” he stated, referencing Montana’s 4-0 record, 68 percent completion percentage, average of 285 passing yards, and three-time Super Bowl MVP honors. “After this Super Bowl, we’re not just talking about Brady and Mahomes anymore; Montana must be in the mix.”
It’s noteworthy that Montana’s flawless record had ever been questioned. While Brady’s unparalleled seven Super Bowl victories surpass Montana’s four, Montana’s prowess under pressure makes him one of the sport’s all-time greats.
The Chiefs now face an offseason of reflection and exploration for answers after falling short in their pursuit of a historic three-peat, thwarted by the Philadelphia Eagles. As debates circulate, Mahomes’ legacy in the context of Brady and Montana’s greatness remains an open topic.
Everything is up for discussion, including Mahomes’ place in NFL history alongside Brady and Montana.
