Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs are trying to win their second consecutive Super Bowl to build a new dynasty. However, the 2023 season hasn’t been easy for Andy Reid, especially because of the lack of production on offense.
The Chiefs (9-6) lead the AFC West over the Denver Broncos and the Las Vegas Raiders, but they cannot get the No.1 seed and home-field advantage in the playoffs. A crucial factor in their previous championship runs.
After the retirement of Tom Brady, Mahomes and Reid are the favorites to dominate the NFL. Nevertheless, 2023 could be the first year in which the star quarterback faces a playoff game on the road.
NFL playoffs: What happens if the Chiefs lose against the Bengals?
If the Chiefs lose to the Bengals in Week 17, Kansas City and Patrick Mahomes might still be eliminated. A shocking turn of events. However, with a victory against the Chargers in the final game of the regular season, they could win the AFC West.
The big problem arrives if the Chiefs lose their final two games of the regular season. The Denver Broncos could win out and claim the division and, in the wild card race, many teams could end up with a 10-7 record leaving Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid out of contention.
It’s important to remember the Chiefs have no longer a shot at the No.1 seed as the Baltimore Ravens already clinched home-field advantage. That’s why Mahomes might face his first playoff game on the road.