Patrick Mahomes’ helmet shatters after big hit in Kansas City Chiefs’ play-off win at bitterly cold Arrowhead Stadium

Patrick Mahomes' helmet shattered when he took a huge hit during the Kansas City Chiefs' play-off showdown with the Miami Dolphins on Saturday.

It is the kind of thing manufactures dread, seeing a star player with bits of vital equipment flying off in a crucial game.

The incident happened in the third quarter when Mahomes was trying to get to the Dolphins' three-yard line.

He took a shot from safety DeShon Elliott after scrambling for 13 yards.

It soon became aware that his helmet was missing a chunk and he was forced to change it.

There was some controversy, however, as the referees allowed the play clock to be stopped for Mahomes to change his helmet.

The star quarterback did not have to leave the game nor did the Chiefs have to use a timeout.

Speaking about the incident, Mahomes said after the game: "I was trying to get in there. I was trying to get in that end zone. Young Pat would have got in, I'm getting a little old.

"Like Tennessee, I'd have spun and got in, but I got squared up and got my helmet cracked.

"I try not to do it too much, but it's play-off time and have to try and get in the end zone to win football games."

The Chiefs went on to win the play-off match 26-7 with temperatures plunging to a reported -30 with wind chill factored in.