Troy Aikman accuses NFL referees of showing favoritism to Patrick Mahomes during Chiefs' latest win

NFL legend Troy Aikman has suggested referees give preferential treatment to Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes.

Mahomes, a three-time Super Bowl winner, led Kansas City to victory over the Washington Commanders on Monday night.

Late in the fourth quarter, Mahomes was sacked by Johnny Newton, who twisted the the quarterback round and then threw him to the ground.

The Commanders were punished for unnecessary roughness, prompting Aikman to suggest that officials afford Mahomes extra protection.

'It wasn’t a lot, but with that said, when it comes to quarterbacks – especially this one – they’re gonna protect them,' the former Cowboys quarterback-turned ESPN broadcaster said.

'Johnny does a great job, he gets back there, it’s just a lot of frustration coming out on his part.'

But Aikman's co-commentator Joe Buck suggested it was an 'easy call' for the referees. 'An obvious flag and [Washington coach] Dan Quinn can only shake his head.'

Mahomes passed for 299 yards and three touchdowns, while Kareem Hunt scored twice, as the Chiefs rolled past the Commanders 28–7.

The game was tied at half-time but Mahomes was nearly perfect in the second half after throwing two early interceptions.

He found Hunt on a two-yard score at the start of the third quarter, while his second touchdown pass went to tight end Travis Kelce, giving him 83 scores to tie Priest Holmes for the Chiefs’ franchise record.