Non-Chiefs fans this season have often claimed, “The refs are helping them get wins.” That’s their explanation for why the Kansas City Chiefs have managed to win 14 out of their 15 games so far.
Thanks to the Buffalo Bills, the Chiefs finally have one loss on their record. But hasn’t it all started to feel a bit too predictable? A recent Kansas City insider shared insights on the Chiefs’ Week 16 victory over the Houston Texans, offering a glimpse into head coach Andy Reid’s perspective on his team’s performance.
On December 24, Mitch Holthus, known as “the voice of the Chiefs,” joined Carrington Harrison, host of *The Drive,* for a discussion about the game.
During their chat, Harrison remarked, “Mitch, usually, my job forces me to pick apart what went wrong and discuss it. But I have no complaints about this game. I think it’s the best they’ve played all season.” Holthus quickly responded, “Andy Reid agrees with you, sir; you’re in good company.”
Reid has been critical of his team’s play at times this season, particularly in close games like Week 13 against the Raiders, where they eked out a 19-17 win, and Week 14 against the Chargers, where they repeated that narrow scoreline.
However, after those tight contests, Reid believes the Week 16 game showcased a more complete performance.
Quarterback Patrick Mahomes, fresh off an ankle injury, threw for 260 yards and scored a touchdown. Rookie wide receiver Xavier Worthy added another touchdown, and running back Kareem Hunt found the end zone as well.
Andy Reid’s comments about this game coincide with a potential shift in the Chiefs’ roster dynamics.
Tight end Travis Kelce, who has been a cornerstone of the team for 11 years, has hit an uncharacteristic slump this season, with only 739 receiving yards and two touchdowns in 15 games.
Amid this underwhelming performance, speculation has arisen about his role potentially changing. Fueling these rumors, the Chiefs signed former Vikings tight end Robert Tonyan to their practice squad just before Christmas.
Reid’s remarks about Kelce added more intrigue. “I’m not saying he doesn’t enjoy playing or catching passes. But he’s willing to sacrifice for the cause… He’ll help out wherever needed.”
Fans are left wondering if this “sacrifice” means a reduced role for Kelce. With Mahomes and Kelce known for their on-field chemistry and close friendship, any shift in Kelce’s responsibilities would undoubtedly impact the team dynamic.
While Kelce’s personal life, including his high-profile relationship with pop star Taylor Swift, has kept him in the spotlight, his on-field contributions this season have fallen short of expectations.
Whether the Chiefs plan to lean on Tonyan more heavily in the playoffs remains unclear, but the timing of his signing suggests it’s a possibility.
For now, the Chiefs are preparing for their next matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers, the second-to-last game before the playoffs. This clash is critical for playoff positioning, as both the Chiefs and the Ravens are jockeying for home-field advantage.
As fans gear up for another heated rivalry game, questions linger about Kelce’s role and what the Chiefs’ latest roster moves could mean for their playoff strategy. One thing is certain: with the postseason on the horizon, every decision will count.
