Despite finishing the season with an NFL-leading 15 wins, the Kansas City Chiefs were faced with questions about whether they had regressed since their Super Bowl victory in 2023. The team won several close games, including a controversial pass interference call against the Cincinnati Bengals, a near-miss against the Baltimore Ravens due to a foot out of bounds, and a dramatic last-second blocked field goal against the Denver Broncos. However, with the playoffs now underway and the Chiefs securing home-field advantage, head coach Andy Reid sent a message to playoff contenders, stating, “It’s that time of year.” In a 23-14 victory over the Houston Texans, the Chiefs showcased their powerful defense, relentlessly pressuring quarterback C.J. Stroud. Tight end Travis Kelce, who had a mixed season, returned to form with seven receptions for 117 yards and a touchdown.
When asked about his team’s ability to step up in crucial moments, Reid credited their resilience to their playoff mentality. “They’re good players who love to play the game,” Reid explained. “We’re in that time of the year, and guys stepped up and did a great job. Spags puts them in positions to succeed, and they make the most of it.” The Chiefs will now wait for the outcome of the Sunday divisional-round game between the Buffalo Bills and Baltimore Ravens, as they prepare to host the winner in the AFC championship game next week in Kansas City.
