The Super Bowl wouldn't be complete without the intense action, bitter rivalries and accusations that referees are favoring the Kansas City Chiefs.
It has been the familiar refrain among opposing fans and some pundits, as the Chiefs have built a dynasty behind star quarterback Patrick Mahomes and coach Andy Reid.
The Chiefs will look for an unprecedented third straight championship when they face the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans on Feb. 9.
Of course, Kansas City fans have defended the squad from the supposed preferential treatment by referees. Now, even Mahomes' father, Patrick Mahomes Sr., has spoken up about the matter.
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes after a win.
Denny Medley-Imagn Images
"I’m sure that they (Chiefs) hear it," said the elder Mahomes in an interview with Starcade Media. "It’s a good thing. Let them (critics) say what they want to.
"What I always say is give the baby something to do. If you do all the crying, what’s the baby going to do? Just go out there and keep kicking ass and keep doing your job."
The allegations that referees are protecting the Chiefs only grew louder after the team beat the Houston Texans in the divisional round. The Texans were whistled for roughing the passer and unnecessary roughness, which many didn't agree with, including former NFL star Jason Kelce.
But for Patrick Mahomes Sr., the best way to shush the critics is to capture the ultimate prize.
"Let them hate. At the end, you get to hold up the ring," he said. "You get to hold the parade. You get to light the victory cigars.
"Until somebody takes that away from you, enjoy it because you don't know when it's gonna happen again."
