KANSAS CITY, Mo. – In a game marked by turnovers, the Kansas City Chiefs managed to secure a thrilling 26-25 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals, thanks to Patrick Mahomes and the offense capitalizing in a tense final drive.
After struggling throughout the game, rookie left tackle Kingsley Suamataia was replaced by Wanya Morris for the Chiefs’ last offensive series. On a crucial fourth down play, Morris received an illegal hands to the face penalty, pushing the team back to a 4th-and-16 situation. Mahomes responded by rolling out to his left and launching a pass downfield to wide receiver Rashee Rice. A defender collided with Rice, resulting in a pivotal 29-yard pass interference penalty that placed Kansas City in field goal range. Kicker Harrison Butker then drilled a 51-yard field goal, clinching the win as time expired.
Despite their win, the Chiefs faced numerous challenges. Mahomes threw two interceptions, including one in the first quarter that led to an early Cincinnati touchdown. The Chiefs also experienced a fumble from rookie running back Carson Steele that further compounded their mistakes. Mahomes expressed confidence in the team’s ability to win despite not being at their best, noting that overcoming three turnovers against a strong opponent is a positive sign.
Offensively, the Chiefs found some success on the ground, averaging 4.7 yards per carry, but struggled to contain Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson, which hampered their passing game. Head coach Andy Reid praised Mahomes for his resilience, despite numerous plays being nullified by penalties.
On the defensive side, the Chiefs’ struggles were evident during the first half, with turnovers providing the Bengals advantageous field position. Cincinnati capitalized on Mahomes’ interception and Steele’s fumble, leading to quick scoring drives.
The Chiefs managed to take the lead during a creative play in the second half, where Morris caught a touchdown pass, showcasing Reid’s playcalling innovation. However, Cincinnati’s Joe Burrow responded with effective plays, including a touchdown to Andrei Iosivas and a late go-ahead field goal from Evan McPherson.
In a dramatic final drive, a key defensive pass interference penalty allowed Kansas City to set up Butker’s winning field goal, reminiscent of their previous playoff encounters. Mahomes finished the game with 151 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions, marking his first game with under 200 passing yards since late 2023. Burrow concluded with 258 yards, two touchdowns, and a fumble lost.
Next up, the Chiefs, now 2-0, will face the Atlanta Falcons, who are coming off a short week as they play against the Eagles on Monday night. The matchup is set to begin at 7:20 p.m. CT on NBC.