Should the Reigning AFC Champions Still Be Super Bowl Favorite?
The Kansas City Chiefs enter their bye week with a 5-4 record. In their next eight games, they play only four teams with a record over .500. While they started the season out slowly, they got healthy and finally hit their stride despite losing to the Buffalo Bills a week ago. Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs' offense have been great this season, averaging 380 total yards per game. At the same time, their defense has allowed only 300 yards per game. All of this should come together as we enter the second half of the season.
In the NFL, experience is the key. The Chiefs have never missed the AFC Championship game since Mahomes has been their starting QB. He has won five out of the seven games they’ve played, followed by three Super Bowl rings. This just shows that Mahomes knows how to win close games. Their head coach, Andy Reid, is one of the best play-callers and coaches in the NFL. What the Chiefs have that no one else does is championship DNA, handling pressure, and calling amazing plays when it matters the most. It also doesn’t hurt to have a Hall of Fame TE in Travis Kelce. Kelce’s ability to be reliable on third down and his ability to be Mahomes' check-down are going to be crucial down the stretch.
Wide receiver Rashee Rice finally returned in Week Seven from his six-game suspension. This dynamic pass catcher has elevated this offense, totaling 20 catches for 216 yards and three touchdowns. Additionally, he recorded four carries for 18 yards and a touchdown on the ground. The Chiefs use him all over the field, at running back, in the slot, and even out wide. With Isiah Pacheco dealing with an injury this season and the Chiefs passing on a running back at the trade deadline, they are going to have to find ways to get their playmakers the ball.
Kansas City's defense, led by Chris Jones, has been superb this season. They rank top five in points per game with 17.7, and top ten in yards allowed with 299.8. As the second half of the season ramps up, defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo is going to have to let his presence be felt, dialing blitzes while still maintaining coverage downfield. Spagnuolo needs to find pressure on QBs and not let them feel comfortable in the pocket. With the mix of veterans and young guys, the Kansas defense can carry its team while the offense tries to find consistency.
The Kansas City Chiefs have proven they can win games that are high-scoring shootouts, while also playing in slugfests. Do not let their 5-4 record fool you, Andy Reid and the whole team are going to another Super Bowl this year. On all gambling apps, they are the favorite to win the Super Bowl, despite currently being out of the playoffs. With a good defense, a soft schedule, and Mahomes running the show with a healthy receiving corps, look for the Chiefs to make a serious run.
