The Kansas City Chiefs celebrated their ninth consecutive AFC West championship Sunday night, achieving this milestone in a manner that was anything but standard. With a record of 12-1, the Chiefs secured a dramatic 19-17 victory against the Los Angeles Chargers, thanks to third-string kicker Matthew Wright. Stepping in for two injured kickers, Wright made a 31-yard field goal as the clock expired, sealing the win for Kansas City.
Following the game, the Chiefs donned their AFC West championship hats and t-shirts, a tradition that marks their triumph in the division. However, this victory felt distinct from the previous eight titles due to the unique challenges faced this season. The Chiefs may encounter the Chargers or rivals like the Denver Broncos again in the playoffs, which adds an intriguing twist to their championship journey.
“Our first goal every single year is to win the AFC West, and it’s a great division,” stated quarterback Patrick Mahomes. He acknowledged the competitive nature of the division, with three teams likely headed for the playoffs—a testament to the strength of their competitors.
Looking forward, the Chiefs are now aiming for the top playoff seed in the AFC, which would provide them with a valuable first-round bye and home-field advantage during the playoffs. Currently, they hold a two-game lead over the Buffalo Bills and Pittsburgh Steelers, who both have 10-3 records.
Chiefs coach Andy Reid praised the team’s accomplishment, referring to the ninth straight division title as “a great achievement” and noting that it represents the second-longest division title streak in NFL history—only surpassed by the New England Patriots’ 11-title run in the AFC East from 2009 to 2019.
Despite the excitement, Reid emphasized that their work is far from over. “It’s early in the year here, so we’ve still got [four] games left,” he said, urging the team to maintain their aggressive playstyle against their remaining opponents, who will also be fighting for playoff positions.
The Chargers game marked the sixth time this season the Chiefs won in a nail-biting finish. Reid expressed pride in his players for their resilience during tight contests, stating, “Every year is a little bit different on how we’ve gotten there, but I’m proud of our guys who are just hanging in there.”
Wright’s successful field goal capped off a season where he is one of three Chiefs kickers to achieve a walk-off field goal, joining Harrison Butker and Spencer Shrader. Wright’s kick, which struck the left upright before going through, showcased both his skill and the nail-biting nature of the game. Reid humorously advised Wright to adjust his aim for next time, but he also recognized the crucial role Wright has played in recent games.
As the Chiefs look ahead, they do so with a mix of celebration and determination, focusing on their ultimate goal of succeeding in the playoffs and striving for another Super Bowl appearance. This season has shown that, despite challenges, the team continues to adapt and find ways to succeed, leaving fans hopeful for what lies ahead.