In the ever-evolving landscape of the NFL, where records are shattered and legacies are forged, one name consistently shines at the forefront: Patrick Mahomes.

The Kansas City Chiefs’ superstar quarterback has carved out his place in football history, and recently, Mahomes revealed the play he considers his personal masterpiece—a defining moment that helped launch his meteoric rise in the league.

Appearing on the popular sports talk show First Things First, Mahomes was asked to name his favorite play from his career that wasn’t in a Super Bowl.

While many might have expected him to choose the iconic “Jet Chip Wasp” completion to Tyreek Hill in Super Bowl LIV, Mahomes surprised fans by choosing a different moment: a critical fourth-and-seven throw against the Baltimore Ravens during his breakout 2018 season.

“I always say the fourth-and-seven against the Ravens in my first year starting,” Mahomes recalled, his face lighting up at the memory. “That was kind of that first year when I was trying to prove myself, and to have that play in that moment was definitely a big one.”

The stakes were incredibly high during that December 2018 game. The Chiefs were trailing late in the fourth quarter, and with time running out, Mahomes found himself in a situation that could define his young career. Facing intense pressure from the Ravens’ defense, Mahomes unleashed a rocket pass on fourth-and-seven, threading the needle to hit Tyreek Hill for a 48-yard gain. That throw helped set up a game-tying touchdown, propelling the Chiefs to an eventual overtime victory.

“I think that play really jumpstarted my career,” Mahomes admitted with a smile. “It was a moment where I proved to myself and to the league that I could make the plays when it mattered most.”

The significance of that play cannot be overstated. In a league where quarterbacks are judged by their ability to perform under pressure, Mahomes’ poise and precision in that fateful moment sent shockwaves through the NFL. It was clear that the Texas Tech product wasn’t just a young gunslinger—he was a generational talent, poised to dominate the league for years to come.

Since that day, the rivalry between the Chiefs and the Ravens has only grown, with Mahomes and Baltimore’s star quarterback, Lamar Jackson, leading their respective teams into battle. Their matchups have become must-watch events, as the two dynamic quarterbacks continue to push the limits of what’s possible on the football field. The most recent chapter in their rivalry came during last season’s AFC Championship Game, where the Chiefs narrowly defeated the Ravens to secure another Super Bowl appearance.

“Lamar’s an unbelievable player,” Mahomes said, acknowledging Jackson’s talent. “He’s the youngest two-time MVP in the league, and he’s going to be a challenge every time we face him. But I believe in my guys, and I know we’re going to be ready to go.”

As the 2024 season approaches, fans are already buzzing with anticipation for another showdown between Mahomes and Jackson. The two quarterbacks, both former MVPs, represent the future of the NFL, and their games have become defining moments for their respective teams. While Jackson has yet to reach the pinnacle of a Super Bowl victory, Mahomes has already cemented his legacy as a three-time champion, adding to his growing list of accolades.

Yet, for all the success Mahomes has experienced, it is that fourth-and-seven throw against the Ravens that remains one of the defining moments of his career. It was a play that not only showcased his raw talent but also his ability to thrive under pressure—an essential quality for any quarterback aiming for greatness.

As the 2024-25 NFL season dawns, Mahomes and the Chiefs are once again positioned as one of the league’s top contenders, with their sights set on another Super Bowl title. But standing in their way, as always, are the Ravens and their dynamic quarterback, Lamar Jackson. With the stage set for another epic clash between two of the NFL’s most captivating stars, fans can only wonder if this year’s games will produce another iconic moment—perhaps one that will rival that unforgettable fourth-and-seven throw.

For Mahomes, that pivotal play against the Ravens in 2018 will forever be a turning point—a moment that not only jumpstarted his career but also cemented his place in the annals of football history. As the Chiefs gear up for another championship run, that throw may very well be the spark that continues to drive Mahomes and his team toward greatness.

Stay tuned, because with Patrick Mahomes, the next iconic moment is always just one play away.