It’s been a few days now since Super Bowl LIX took place, but many NFL fans are still in a bit of shock by what transpired. Everyone had grown so accustomed to the Kansas City Chiefs winning games, particularly close ones, that a brutal blowout at the hands of the Philadelphia Eagles was never a consideration.
But that’s exactly what happened, as the Eagles put up 40 points on Kansas City, going up 34-0 at one point. While the offense was in rhythm, it was Philadelphia’s defense that set the tone. A relentless pass-rush had Mahomes constantly under pressure, which led to two interceptions, one of which was an epic pick-six by rookie defensive back Cooper DeJean. While the play seemed purely instinctive, did DeJean know it was coming?
Cooper DeJean looked out for crossing route on Super Bowl LIX pick-six
Kay Adams recently asked DeJean if there was anything he saw during film study that helped him make the play on the pick-six. DeJean mentions Mahomes’ penchant to throw the ball to “anyone on the field” once he starts scrambling. He then confirms Adams’ notion that the Eagles defense knew to look out for crossing routes whenever Mahomes rolls out of the pocket.
Yeah, I mean, anytime he gets out of the pocket you never know what’s gonna happen. I’ve seen him throw it across his body, I don’t know how many times watching film. It’s just the crazy plays that he’s made, I’ve seen him complete those passes. It’s really just trying to track his eyes, where he was looking, and following him back inside and making that play.
While DeJean admits anything can happen when Mahomes scrambles, the Chiefs quarterback has been overly willing to throw the ball across his body to receivers coming from the other side of the field.
That’s generally not advised for any quarterback, but Mahomes has been getting away with it since for a long time due to his incredible arm talent. It just didn’t work out in the Super Bowl against a fast and fierce Eagles defense.
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