Preview of AFC Divisional Matchup: Bills vs. Chiefs

With the conclusion of the Super Wild Card Weekend, attention now turns to the NFL playoffs’ divisional rounds. This analysis focuses on one of the most captivating matchups of the weekend: the clash between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Buffalo Bills.

Since Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen assumed leadership roles for their respective teams, fans have been treated to numerous thrilling encounters between the Chiefs and Bills. The last three meetings between these teams have been closely contested, all decided by a single score.

The first of these memorable matchups occurred in the 2022 AFC Divisional Round. The Bills, visiting Arrowhead, gave the defending Super Bowl champions a formidable challenge. Trailing 29-33 with just over a minute remaining, Josh Allen orchestrated an impressive drive, connecting on passes of varying lengths, culminating in a touchdown to Gabe Davis. Seizing a 36-33 lead with 13 seconds on the clock, the Bills seemed poised for victory.

However, the Chiefs, led by Patrick Mahomes, executed a stunning drive, resulting in a game-tying field goal as time expired. In overtime, a rule change was subsequently prompted to ensure both teams receive possession. Since that heart-wrenching loss, the Bills have secured two consecutive victories against the Chiefs with scores of 24-20 and 20-17. Now, they face each other in the AFC Divisional Round for the first time since their initial epic clash.

The spotlight naturally falls on the quarterbacks in this matchup. Mahomes, despite a perceived “down year,” posted impressive numbers with 4,183 yards and 27 touchdowns. Meanwhile, Allen recorded 4,306 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, and showcased his dual-threat ability with 524 rushing yards and 15 scores. Both quarterbacks rank high in the league for interceptions, with Mahomes at 14 and Allen at 18 in 2023.

Notably, this game marks the first occasion a Patrick Mahomes-led Chiefs team will play an away playoff game. All 15 of Mahomes’ previous playoff games, excluding Super Bowls, were hosted at home. Interestingly, it also signifies Mahomes’ first visit to Buffalo, as their previous five meetings occurred at Arrowhead Stadium. Despite this, Mahomes has historically performed well away from home, boasting superior statistics in yards, touchdowns, and a slightly higher interception count in away games.

Turning to the receiving threats, the Chiefs rely on Travis Kelce and emerging rookie Rashee Rice. Kelce, despite perceived struggles, had a solid Wild Card round performance. On the Bills’ side, Stefon Diggs leads in receiving, but he has faced a recent slump, finishing the season with 11 consecutive games of under 100 yards. Rookie tight end Dalton Kincaid has emerged as a crucial threat, concluding his rookie season with notable contributions.

Shifting focus to defense, both teams feature top-tier units. The Chiefs rank second in points per game allowed (16.7) and total yards allowed (288.3), while the Bills rank fourth (18.2) and ninth (308.1) in the respective categories. Remarkably, it’s the first meeting between these teams with both possessing top-10 defenses.

Both teams boast elite pass rushes, with key players like Chris Jones and George Karlaftis for the Chiefs and Leonard Floyd and Ed Oliver for the Bills. Despite their formidable pass rushes, both teams excel in protecting their quarterbacks, with Allen being the least sacked in the league (1.4 times per game) and Mahomes closely following (1.6 times per game).

In summary, this matchup promises a spectacle with two outstanding quarterbacks, formidable defenses, and a history of intense competition. Given past encounters, expectations are high for another Sunday night classic.