Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs have been nearly unstoppable in the postseason, winning eight consecutive playoff games—the third-longest streak in NFL history. However, to make it nine, they’ll have to defeat a familiar rival: the Buffalo Bills.
The Chiefs and Bills have built a fierce rivalry in recent years, with Mahomes and Josh Allen frequently battling in high-stakes matchups. While Allen has a strong record against the Chiefs in the regular season, Mahomes has dominated in the playoffs. With both teams aiming for a spot in the AFC Championship, this showdown promises to be another classic.
Chiefs vs. Bills: A Rivalry of Giants
Mahomes vs. Allen: A Playoff Duel
Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen have faced off multiple times, and their games are always thrilling.
- Josh Allen’s Regular Season Record vs. Chiefs: 4-1
- Patrick Mahomes’ Playoff Record vs. Bills: 3-0
One of Mahomes’ most memorable playoff wins over Allen came in the 2021 divisional round, when he led a game-tying drive in just 13 seconds, ultimately winning in overtime. Meanwhile, Allen handed the Chiefs their first loss of the 2023 season with a crucial 26-yard touchdown run on fourth down in Week 11.
Both quarterbacks have proven they can rise to the occasion, and this playoff meeting will likely come down to another game-changing moment.
Mahomes’ Impressive Playoff Stats
Mahomes’ postseason performances have been nothing short of legendary.
- Postseason Wins (as starting QB): 16 (Tied for second-most in history)
- Playoff Passing Touchdowns: 42 (5th-most in history)
- Postseason Passing Yards: 5,312 (8th-most in history)
- Playoff Stats vs. Buffalo: 918 passing yards, 8 touchdowns, 0 interceptions in 3 games
Mahomes understands the challenge ahead. “When you go up against a great quarterback, it takes your best as well,” he said, acknowledging Allen’s ability to perform in big moments.
Chiefs’ Key to Victory: Getting DeAndre Hopkins Involved
While Mahomes has been dominant in the playoffs, the Chiefs’ passing attack has struggled at times. A key factor in this game will be finding ways to get DeAndre Hopkins more involved.
- In the Week 11 loss to Buffalo, Hopkins caught just three passes for 29 yards.
- Against the Houston Texans in the divisional round, he had zero catches.
The veteran wide receiver, acquired in an October trade with the Tennessee Titans, has yet to play in an AFC Championship Game in his 12-year career. But with his reliable hands and big-play ability, he could be a game-changer.
For Hopkins, this is a dream come true. “I played Madden growing up and always tried to get to that Super Bowl game. As a kid, that’s a lifelong goal,” he said. Now, he has the chance to help Kansas City reach another championship.
Chiefs’ Playoff Experience vs. Bills’ Determination
The Chiefs have been the most dominant team in the AFC over the last seven seasons. With head coach Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes, they have reached the AFC Championship Game every year since 2018. They are aiming for their third consecutive Super Bowl appearance, a feat that would further cement their dynasty status.
Meanwhile, the Bills are hungry for redemption. Despite being a top contender for years, they have yet to break through and reach the Super Bowl. A victory over the Chiefs would be a defining moment for Josh Allen and head coach Sean McDermott.
Reid summed it up best: “I feel like we play these guys all the time. They know us. We know them.”
Can Mahomes and the Chiefs Continue Their Playoff Dominance?
With history on the line, Mahomes and the Chiefs must overcome a tough Bills team to keep their playoff streak alive. The outcome will likely depend on:
- Mahomes’ ability to perform in clutch moments
- Josh Allen’s playmaking ability under pressure
- Kansas City’s success in getting DeAndre Hopkins involved
- Buffalo’s defense finding a way to slow down Mahomes
No matter the result, one thing is certain—this game will be another unforgettable chapter in the Chiefs-Bills rivalry.
