The Buffalo Bills and Kansas City Chiefs: A Rivalry Renewed in the Divisional Round
Two Familiar Foes Clash for a Spot in the AFC Championship Game
The NFL’s Divisional Round weekend concludes with a highly anticipated matchup between two familiar foes: the Buffalo Bills and Kansas City Chiefs. This will be the third time in four seasons that these teams have met in the playoffs, adding another chapter to their burgeoning rivalry. For the first time, the game will take place in Buffalo, with the Chiefs venturing on the road for a postseason contest for the first time in the Patrick Mahomes era.
The Bills hold a recent edge over the Chiefs, having won their last meeting earlier this season in Kansas City. This victory marked the start of a six-game winning streak for Buffalo, propelling them to the top of the AFC East standings. With a trip to the AFC Championship Game on the line, both teams will be looking to assert their dominance and secure a spot in the conference title game.
How to Watch the Divisional Round Clash
- Date: Sunday, January 21, 2024
- Time: 6:30 p.m. ET
- Location: Highmark Stadium (Orchard Park, New York)
- TV: CBS
- Streaming: Paramount+
- Follow: CBS Sports App
Betting Odds
According to consensus odds from Sportsline, the Bills are favored by 2.5 points, with an over/under of 45.5 points.
Breaking Down the Matchup
When the Chiefs Have the Ball
The Chiefs’ offense finally found its rhythm last week against the Dolphins, racking up 409 yards and scoring on six of their nine non-clock-killing drives. However, they struggled in the red zone, going just 2 for 6. The Bills’ defense, known for its stinginess in the second half of the season, will pose a significant challenge to Kansas City’s high-powered attack.
A key factor in this matchup will be the performance of the Chiefs’ offensive line against Buffalo’s formidable pass rush. Last week, the Dolphins’ depleted edge rushers failed to generate pressure on Patrick Mahomes, allowing him ample time to operate. Against the Bills, Mahomes will face a much tougher test. Greg Rousseau, Leonard Floyd, Von Miller, and the rest of Buffalo’s pass-rushing unit rank among the league’s best, and they could wreak havoc if they can consistently pressure Mahomes.
The Chiefs’ success could also hinge on their ability to exploit the middle of the field. With Rashee Rice and Travis Kelce as their primary targets, Kansas City has a distinct advantage over Buffalo’s banged-up defense. The Bills’ linebackers and safeties will be tasked with covering the middle of the field, and any injuries or weaknesses in those positions could be exploited by Mahomes and his receivers.
Despite their overall strength, the Bills’ run defense has been somewhat average this season. They allowed the Dolphins to gain 58 yards on 15 carries in their previous meeting, and they rank 17th in DVOA against the run. However, the return of DaQuan Jones to the Bills’ defensive line could provide a boost against Kansas City’s powerful rushing attack, led by Isiah Pacheco.
When the Bills Have the Ball
This matchup presents a stark contrast to previous encounters between these teams. The Bills’ offense has undergone a transformation, becoming more run-heavy and less reliant on Josh Allen’s passing prowess. Meanwhile, the Chiefs now boast one of the NFL’s top defenses, a significant departure from their past shootouts with Buffalo.
The key to Buffalo’s success will likely rest on Josh Allen’s ability to avoid turnovers and make game-changing plays. Kansas City’s pass defense has been exceptional this season, ranking fifth in DVOA. They excel at generating pressure and creating turnovers, which could spell trouble for Allen if he holds the ball too long.
The Chiefs’ secondary, led by L’Jarius Sneed and Trent McDuffie, will be tasked with containing Buffalo’s talented receiving corps. If they can stick to their receivers and disrupt Allen’s rhythm, they could force him into making mistakes. However, if Allen can find ways to escape the pressure and connect with his receivers, the Bills could exploit Kansas City’s defense.
The Bills’ running game, featuring James Cook and Josh Allen, presents another challenge for the Chiefs. Kansas City’s run defense has been solid this season, but Allen’s unique rushing ability could be a game-changer. The Bills should look to utilize Allen’s legs, especially in short-yardage situations, to create an advantage.
Prediction
The Bills’ home-field advantage and recent win over the Chiefs give them an edge in this matchup. However, the Chiefs’ improved defense and Patrick Mahomes’ leadership make them a formidable opponent. In a close and hard-fought game, I believe the Chiefs will ultimately prevail.
Pick: Chiefs 23, Bills 21
As the NFL’s Divisional Round concludes, the Buffalo Bills and Kansas City Chiefs are set to face off in a highly anticipated matchup. With both teams boasting talented offenses and formidable defenses, this game promises to be a thrilling contest. Tune in on Sunday, January 21, to witness this epic clash and see who emerges victorious.