The Kansas City Chiefs have had to overcome a season filled with injuries and inconsistent play on both sides of the ball, but once again they found a way to get the job done. Chiefs leave Week 15 with a 21-7 win over the Cleveland Browns, moving to 13-1 on the season. While their offense struggled at times, the defense delivered a dominant performance to make up for it, forcing a season-high six turnovers. Head Coach Andy Reid, Quarterback Patrick Mahomes, and Cornerback Trent McDuffie addressed the media after the game, offering their thoughts on the team’s performance and areas for improvement moving forward.
Despite the win, injuries and personnel remain a point of concern, specifically Mahomes who had to leave the game after an apparent ankle injury, and Reid’s adjustments to the offensive line left questions about long-term stability. Despite these questions, the Chiefs continue to find ways to win and have placed themselves in a good position as they make their push for a strong playoff position.
Andy Reid Speaks On Chiefs Offensive Struggles
Andy Reid during his opening remarks took the blame for the team’s offensive struggles. “I’ve got to give my guys some better calls to make their jobs easier,” Reid said. He was adamant that moving forward his play calling will be better, as they look to become a more balanced team as the playoffs approach.
Reid during his presser also addressed his decision to move Joe Thuney from left guard to left tackle after an injury to D.J. Humphries. “Joe has taken a couple of snaps there for us the last week, and I just felt comfortable,” Reid said. The adjustment proved to pay off, as Mahomes, or Wentz in his limited snaps, were not sacked today.
When asked about Mahomes’ injury, Reid reassured reporters and fans that it wasn’t severe. “It’s not broken, and it will be day-to-day as we move forward,” he said. To no one’s surprise, Mahomes insisted he could return, but Reid made the call to hold him out for precautionary reasons, prioritizing the long-term health of his star quarterback.
Patrick Mahomes Reflected On Injury and Team’s Overall Performance
Patrick Mahomes, who exited the game in the fourth quarter, after what ended up being ruled as an ankle injury shared postgame that he was confident in his team’s ability to finish strong without him. “I think the smart decision we talked about was put [Carson Wentz] in and he’s played a lot of football and he finished the game well,” Mahomes said.
Mahomes also described his injury as an unfortunate accident. “I got rolled up on as I was moving up the pocket on the fourth-down play,” he said. While his status for the next game remains uncertain, he will have Mahomes showed optimism about returning next week, and he will have more tests on Monday after X-rays come back negative postgame.
Reflecting on the team’s progress this season, Mahomes did acknowledge that even with their success there remain areas for improvement. “We’re not playing the football we want to be playing, but we’ve managed to win against a lot of good teams,” he said. He praised the defense and special teams for their consistency while stressing the need for the offense to put together complete performances.
Kansas City Defense Shines
Then Trent McDuffie spoke on the team’s dominant defensive performance which included six forced turnovers that sealed their victory. McDuffie, who recorded his first career interception, highlighted the team’s preparation. “Coming into this week, I think everyone knew we had a good shot at getting some turnovers.”
McDuffie went on to discuss the Chiefs’ renewed focus on creating turnovers. “These past few weeks, you guys have seen we haven’t had a turnover in like two or three weeks. Coming into this week, that was a big emphasis,” he said. This defense gave the offense opportunities to capitalize, even as they struggled to find a rhythm.
With standout performances from McDuffie, Nick Bolton, George Karlaftis, and others, the Chiefs’ defense reminded everyone of its potential to carry the team during their challenging offensive stretches. As the season progresses, maintaining this level of play will be vital for Kansas City’s success.
Final Thoughts
This win from the Chiefs showcased both their strengths and areas needing improvement. The defense proved its capability with an impressive turnover-filled performance, while the offense struggled to find consistency. Then there are injuries to key players like Mahomes which can present additional challenges in the coming weeks.
With all of that said Kansas City’s focus is on improving on offense and getting healthy as the postseason approaches. With Reid taking responsibility for the offense’s shortcomings and players like McDuffie stepping up defensively, the Chiefs still have everything they need in-house to accomplish their aspirations for this season.
