Is the Biggest Threat to the Chiefs the Ravens or the Bills?
The Kansas City Chiefs have been the NFL’s best team for the past several seasons, but that dominance comes with a target on their back. Every year, certain teams emerge as legitimate challengers, and in the AFC, two organizations stand out. That is the Baltimore Ravens and the Buffalo Bills. Both have elite quarterbacks, strong defenses, and more motivation than ever to dethrone the Chiefs. The question is, which of the two is the bigger threat?
The Ravens bring a unique challenge because of their unpredictable style of play. Lamar Jackson’s ability to extend plays with his legs makes him a nightmare for any defense, and Kansas City has historically had trouble containing mobile quarterbacks. Baltimore’s defense, led by a ferocious pass rush and ball-hawking secondary, also presents problems for Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs’ offensive line. The Ravens’ physical style, led by Derrick Henry, could wear down Kansas City throughout a game, especially if they can control time of possession with their run-heavy attack. Their recent playoff struggles against the Chiefs don’t erase the fact that they are built to match up well in a single-elimination setting.
The Bills, however, are no strangers to giving the Chiefs a scare. Josh Allen’s cannon arm and ability to make plays outside the pocket have kept Buffalo in shootouts with Kansas City over the years. Unlike the Ravens, the Bills lean heavily on an explosive passing game that can go toe-to-toe with Mahomes in a track meet. Buffalo’s defense has been inconsistent in recent seasons, but their ability to create turnovers and score points on offense makes them extremely dangerous. If the Bills’ offensive line holds up, they have the firepower to keep pace with anyone in the league, including the reigning champs.
When weighing both teams, the Ravens might be the more dangerous matchup due to their versatility and ability to dictate game tempo. However, the Bills’ familiarity with the Chiefs and Josh Allen alone is enough to make each game a nail-biter. Home-field advantage also plays a huge factor in these games. Ultimately, Kansas City must prepare for both, because in the AFC playoff gauntlet, one of these teams could very well stand between them and another Super Bowl appearance.
