Mahomes: The Standard for Elite QB Greatness

Pro Football Hall of Fame running back Emmitt Smith has defined what he considers elite quarterback greatness. Speaking on Kevin Clark's This Is Football podcast during Super Bowl LX media week, Smith outlined a philosophy where top quarterbacks rise to the occasion when others falter.

Smith stated that elite players define the game, rather than being defined by it. He specifically praised Patrick Mahomes, identifying him as an elite quarterback who has mastered overcoming extreme circumstances. This contrasts with other quarterbacks who are still learning to achieve that level.

Smith used Josh Allen as an example, mentioning his past opportunity to reach the Super Bowl with the Buffalo Bills and how his performance in critical moments did not meet the elite standard. He reiterated that true elite quarterbacks carry their teams through adversity.

Mahomes' impact is seen not only in his performance but also in his influence on younger players. His ability to learn from and guide others, like potentially a young quarterback on the Giants, demonstrates his status as an era-defining player who shapes outcomes beyond his immediate team.