When the Texans last visited Kansas City for a divisional playoff game, the stakes were high, and the memories are unforgettable.
At that time, Chiefs head coach Andy Reid was regarded as one of the best coaches yet to win a Super Bowl. Patrick Mahomes, the Chiefs’ record-shattering quarterback, was a rising star brimming with potential. Meanwhile, the Texans were led by Deshaun Watson, not rookie C.J. Stroud, and Watson lit up the first quarter with two touchdown passes, helping Houston jump to a shocking 24-0 lead inside Arrowhead Stadium.
But the Chiefs responded with a near-perfect finish. They erupted for 28 points in the second quarter and cruised to a 51-31 victory. That win not only sent Kansas City to the AFC Championship Game but also became the launching pad for Reid’s first Super Bowl title.
Fast forward to this Saturday, the Chiefs are hoping history repeats itself. Another victory over Houston could propel Kansas City toward an unprecedented third consecutive Super Bowl title and their fourth in six years—a dynasty in the making that began with that unforgettable playoff game on January 12, 2020.
Chiefs: Rested and Ready?
The Chiefs (15-2) enter the divisional round as the AFC’s top seed, having secured the lone first-round bye. After clinching the No. 1 spot on Christmas Day, Kansas City opted to rest stars like Mahomes, Travis Kelce, and Chris Jones in their Week 18 loss to Denver. That decision left them with a lengthy 24-day break between meaningful games—a calculated risk to ensure their roster is healthy.
However, there are questions about the offensive line. Protecting Mahomes has been a challenge all season, particularly on the blind side. All-Pro guard Joe Thuney has been playing out of position at left tackle, with Mike Caliendo filling his guard spot. As the playoffs heat up, will the Chiefs stick with this configuration or turn to veteran tackle D.J. Humphries, who has seen limited action due to injuries?
On defense, the Chiefs may get a boost with the potential return of cornerback Jaylen Watson. A key starter in the secondary, Watson hasn’t played since breaking his ankle in October. His presence could strengthen Kansas City’s backfield against Houston’s emerging passing attack.
Texans: Building Momentum
The Texans (11-7) arrive in Kansas City riding high after back-to-back wins. They closed the regular season by beating the Titans and then dismantled the Chargers in the wild-card round. Despite losing to the Chiefs in December during a grueling stretch of three games in 11 days, Houston believes it’s a different team now.
Special teams have been a game-changer for the Texans. Last week, D’Angelo Ross blocked a punt and later returned a blocked PAT for two points—the first such play in NFL playoff history. These explosive moments could be crucial against a battle-tested Chiefs squad.
Offensively, wide receiver Nico Collins has been a revelation. Despite injuries to Stefon Diggs and Tank Dell, Collins stepped up as the Texans’ top target, tallying 1,006 receiving yards in the regular season. He added a franchise playoff-record 122 yards and a touchdown in the wild-card win over the Chargers.
A Family Affair for Mahomes
While Mahomes prepped for Saturday’s showdown, he also celebrated a major life milestone during the bye week. His wife, Brittany, gave birth to their third child, a daughter named Golden Raye. She joins siblings Sterling and Bronze in the growing Mahomes family—a touching moment during the calm before the playoff storm.
What’s at Stake
For the Chiefs, this game represents more than a chance to advance to the AFC Championship—it’s about cementing a legacy. Meanwhile, the Texans are fighting to make franchise history by reaching the AFC title game for the first time.
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