As the college football season kicks off, excitement is palpable among fans and players alike, eager to see how each team will fare in the quest for national glory. For Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, the beginning of the 2024 college football campaign holds a special significance as he returns to his roots to support his alma mater, Texas Tech University. Known for his electrifying performances on the NFL stage, Mahomes has carried that same passion into motivating the next generation of football stars.

Recently, Mahomes made a highly anticipated visit back to Texas Tech, where he delivered a stirring “All In” speech to the Red Raiders football team. His presence and words were meant to fuel their ambitions as they prepare for their season opener next weekend. The gravity of his message was clear, and it struck a chord with every player in the room.

Mahomes began his speech with a profound reflection on his own career, sharing a lesson that he has carried with him from his time at Texas Tech through his NFL career. “I give y’all one thing: if I don’t give y’all anything from this entire speech that I learned from my time at Texas Tech and in the NFL, and it’s what I live by today, is when you play this game, you got to be all in,” he said. His message was not just about playing hard but about a total commitment to the game—being all-in on every facet of football and life.

Reflecting on his own college years, Mahomes admitted a poignant regret: not being fully invested in every aspect of his time at Texas Tech. “We had great offenses and exciting teams. I got drafted in the first round, but was I all in?” he questioned. “Was I all in on doing whatever it took in my extra time to win that Big 12 championship?” For Mahomes, his time at Texas Tech was filled with success and excitement, yet he felt that there was a deeper level of commitment he could have reached. This introspection was meant to serve as a powerful reminder to the current players about the importance of dedicating oneself fully to the sport.

Mahomes’ words were backed by his impressive credentials. During his illustrious college career, he amassed 11,252 passing yards and 115 total touchdowns in just three seasons. His talent and hard work earned him a first-round selection in the 2017 NFL Draft, where he has since become a three-time Super Bowl champion. Despite his incredible success in the NFL, Mahomes has never forgotten his roots or his commitment to Texas Tech. His strong bond with the university is evident in his ongoing support and the effort he puts into motivating the next generation of Red Raiders.

In his speech, Mahomes emphasized the difference between the immediate rewards of success and the temporary pleasures of life outside of football. “I’ll let you all know one thing: for winning the Super Bowl Championship, you have a way better time doing that than that extra stuff you’re gonna do on the weekends or whatever that is,” he said. The comparison was meant to highlight the lasting satisfaction and fulfillment that come from achieving greatness on the field, compared to the fleeting enjoyment of other distractions.

Mahomes urged the players to commit wholeheartedly to their training and preparation. “So when y’all step in this building, are you all in? When you’re at practice and need to get in that extra rep, are you all in?” he asked. His challenge was not just about physical effort but about a mental and emotional dedication to excellence. “There has to be a commitment to greatness, and that commitment is what will take y’all to that Big 12 championship,” he asserted. His belief in the team’s potential was clear, and he urged them to harness their talents and work ethic to achieve their goals.

The impact of Mahomes’ visit was palpable. The Red Raiders were energized by his presence and motivated by his words. The sight of a superstar like Mahomes—someone who has reached the pinnacle of professional football—speaking directly to them was a powerful reminder of what is possible with dedication and hard work. His speech was not just a pep talk but a genuine reflection on his own journey and the lessons he has learned along the way.

As the Red Raiders gear up for their season opener, they carry with them the weight of Mahomes’ advice and the inspiration of his career. The challenge to be “all in” is more than just a motivational slogan; it is a call to action for every player to fully commit to their craft and strive for greatness in every practice and game. Mahomes’ words serve as a testament to the values of dedication, effort, and perseverance that have guided him throughout his career.

In the broader context of college football, Mahomes’ visit underscores the importance of alumni support and the impact that former players can have on current teams. His willingness to return to Texas Tech and offer his insights and encouragement is a reminder of the strong connections that bind athletes to their alma maters. It also highlights the positive influence that successful alumni can have in inspiring and guiding the next generation of players.

As the season unfolds, the Red Raiders will undoubtedly draw on the motivation and lessons provided by Mahomes. His message of being fully committed to the game is one that resonates deeply with athletes striving for success. For the players, Mahomes’ visit is a reminder of the hard work and dedication required to achieve their goals and a testament to the support and belief that their alma mater’s most famous alumni have in their potential.

However, Patrick Mahomes’ visit to Texas Tech and his powerful “All In” speech have set a high standard for the Red Raiders as they embark on the 2024 college football season. His reflections on his own career, combined with his challenge to the players to commit fully to their sport, provide a compelling and inspiring message. As the Red Raiders prepare for their season opener, they do so with the knowledge that they have the support and belief of one of football’s brightest stars, and with a renewed commitment to achieving greatness both on and off the field.