The Kansas City Chiefs aim for their first 4-0 start since the 2020 season as they clash with the Los Angeles Chargers in their initial divisional game of the season. The Chargers come into this matchup with a 2-1 record. Although Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert is cleared to play, the team will be missing two key offensive linemen. Additionally, Chiefs running back Kareem Hunt may make his first appearance in a Chiefs uniform since 2018.
In the fourth quarter, with 2:00 left, Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes connected with rookie Xavier Worthy on a crucial 3rd-and-6, securing a first down that virtually sealed the game. With 5:00 remaining, the Chiefs took their first lead of the game when Samaje Perine scored on a two-yard run, completing a five-play, 60-yard drive and putting Kansas City ahead 17-10.
At the 9:24 mark in the fourth quarter, the Chargers turned the ball over on downs, which gave the Chiefs a chance to flip field position, though their drive only led to a stalled effort before Los Angeles regained possession on their 15-yard line.
Earlier in the fourth quarter, with 13:32 remaining, the Chiefs’ defense made a pivotal stop on another 4th-and-1 situation, halting a 14-play, 67-yard drive by the Chargers and keeping the game tied at 10-10.
The third quarter saw minimal scoring, with the Chiefs managing a field goal from kicker Harrison Butker following a 10-play, 37-yard drive, leaving the game tied as they entered the final quarter.
At halftime, Chiefs head coach Andy Reid expressed concern over wide receiver Rashee Rice’s knee injury, stating that it was “not good.” The injury to Rice was a significant narrative in the game, especially after he left the field.
In the second quarter, Butker missed a long 65-yard field goal attempt just before halftime. Earlier in the quarter, the Chiefs made a strong comeback following a 54-yard touchdown reception by Worthy from Mahomes, narrowing the Chargers’ lead to 10-7 after a powerful offensive effort.
The Chargers kept the pressure on the Chiefs throughout the first half, with Mahomes being sacked three times. Tight end Travis Kelce also made history during this half by setting a franchise record for most receptions, surpassing Tony Gonzalez with 51 yards in the first half alone.
In the first quarter, the Chargers capitalized on an interception by Mahomes, extending their lead to 10-0. The quarter also saw Rice leave the game due to a knee injury, which has raised concerns about his return this season. The Chargers’ dominant defense proved challenging for Mahomes and the Chiefs’ offense, particularly after they recovered a fumble by running back Carson Steele, his second fumble lost this season.