The Buffalo Bills are gearing up for another showdown against the Kansas City Chiefs, a matchup that has become a defining rivalry since Josh Allen and Patrick Mahomes first faced off as elite quarterbacks in 2020. However, the Bills have struggled against the Chiefs in the playoffs, suffering three defeats in critical moments. As they prepare for their Week 11 clash in Buffalo, the Bills are 8-2 and looking to change their playoff fortunes against the three-time Super Bowl champions.
Understanding the Bills’ Playoff Struggles
Since 2020, the Bills have faced the Chiefs seven times, with a record of 3-4. Yet, when the stakes are highest in the playoffs, the Bills have faltered, going 0-3. Their playoff losses came in the 2020 and 2021 divisional rounds, as well as the 2023 conference title game. Each defeat has been a heartbreaker, ranging from a lopsided loss to a nail-biting overtime thriller, leaving fans and players alike yearning for redemption.
Key Factors for Success Against the Chiefs
As the Bills look ahead to their next encounter with Kansas City, several crucial factors could determine whether they finally overcome their playoff demons. Here’s a closer look at what might help them succeed.
Why Bills will beat Chiefs in playoffs: A more diverse receiving corps
One of the Bills’ strengths this season is their revamped receiving corps. With the potential return of midseason acquisition Amari Cooper, along with emerging talents like Khalil Shakir and Curtis Samuel, Buffalo has options to diversify their offense. This shift could be pivotal for Josh Allen, who has often relied heavily on Stefon Diggs and Gabe Davis in the past.
By spreading the ball around, the Bills can create mismatches against the Chiefs’ defense, making it harder for them to predict plays. Offensive coordinator Joe Brady’s innovative play-calling has been crucial in this transformation, allowing Allen to become more efficient and effective.
Why Bills won’t beat Chiefs in playoffs: No dominant go-to guy
While the Bills have depth, they lack a clear go-to receiver in clutch situations, a role that Travis Kelce fills for the Chiefs. With DeAndre Hopkins also in the mix, Mahomes has reliable targets who can deliver in high-pressure moments. Although Cooper has the potential to step up, his age and the Chiefs’ talented cornerbacks may limit his impact.
Buffalo might need to adopt unconventional strategies, such as utilizing Davis in the backfield or getting Shakir involved in quick, short routes to stretch the field and keep the Chiefs guessing.
Why Bills will beat Chiefs in playoffs: Pass defense
Defensively, the Bills have shown promise. Ranked No. 18 in pass defense, they allow an average of 212.9 yards per game but boast impressive totals with 25 sacks and 11 interceptions. They are tied with the Chiefs in allowing just 6.8 yards per pass play, showcasing their ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks.
With defensive ends Greg Rousseau and AJ Epenesa leading the charge, the Bills can disrupt Mahomes’ rhythm. Cornerbacks Christian Benford and Taron Johnson have the potential to dominate in coverage, making it crucial for Buffalo to capitalize on Mahomes’ off year.
Why Bills won’t beat Chiefs in playoffs: Run defense
Despite their strengths, the Bills’ run defense is a concern. Ranking No. 15 in the NFL, they allow an average of 123.2 rushing yards per game, but they also give up an alarming 4.9 yards per carry, which is tied for the third-worst in the league.
The Chiefs may not be the most efficient rushing team this season, but they know how to use the run game to set up their passing attack. Head coach Andy Reid will likely exploit this weakness, especially in critical situations like the red zone.
Why Bills will beat Chiefs in playoffs: Rushing offense
On the offensive side, the Bills are finding success on the ground, averaging 120.7 rushing yards per game and 4.4 yards per carry. With James Cook and Davis sharing the workload, along with Allen’s relentless rushing, the Bills have the tools to keep the Chiefs’ defense on its toes.
Brady’s emphasis on a balanced attack has paid dividends, allowing Allen to focus on passing without becoming overly reliant on the air game. This balance will be essential against a formidable Chiefs pass rush.
Why Bills won’t beat Chiefs in playoffs: Chiefs’ run defense
However, the Bills face a formidable challenge in the Chiefs’ run defense, currently ranked No. 3 in the NFL. Allowing just 83.2 rushing yards per game and only 3.7 yards per carry, Kansas City can stifle Buffalo’s ground game. For the Bills to succeed, they must commit to running the ball effectively and strategically, especially in critical situations.
Why Bills will beat Chiefs in playoffs: Winning the turnover battle
One of the most significant advantages the Bills have is their turnover margin, leading the NFL at plus-13. Allen has minimized his interceptions this season, throwing only four in ten games, while the Bills have secured 19 takeaways. This statistic could be a game-changer, as the Chiefs sit near the bottom of the league at minus-4.
By increasing their possessions and limiting Mahomes’ opportunities, the Bills could set themselves up for a fourth-quarter victory.
Why Bills won’t beat Chiefs in playoffs: Losing the intangibles battle
Despite their strengths, the Bills must overcome a psychological barrier. The Chiefs, led by Mahomes, thrive in high-pressure situations and have a history of overcoming deficits. Their confidence in crunch time is palpable, while the Bills must prove they can match that intensity.
From special teams to trick plays, the Chiefs have a knack for pulling off the unexpected. If the Bills falter in focus or execution, they risk falling victim to the Chiefs’ experience and savvy.
The Bills have the talent and potential to take down the Chiefs, but they must rise to the occasion. With the right strategies and a determined mindset, they could finally break the playoff curse and emerge victorious. The road ahead is challenging, but for Bills fans, hope springs eternal.
