The Kansas City Chiefs continued their unbeaten streak, defeating the Las Vegas Raiders 27-20 and avenging their Christmas Day loss a season ago. With a balanced attack, timely defensive stops, and clutch plays from key players on both sides of the ball, the Kansas City Chiefs moved to 7-0, and have tied a franchise record with their 13th straight win.
Kansas City got off to a strong start with early contributions from new additions and veteran players alike. In a game marked by crucial defensive plays, timely offensive conversions, and a goal-line stand, the Chiefs maintained control throughout the contest, effectively stifling the Raiders’ attempts to close the gap.
Chiefs Start Strong With Opening Drive
Kansas City set the tone with an impressive opening drive, going 70 yards in nine plays. The drive featured new Chief DeAndre Hopkins making a 13-yard catch, and key gains from veterans Travis Kelce and Samaje Perine. Kareem Hunt capped the drive with a one-yard touchdown run, putting the Chiefs up 7-0 with 10:02 remaining in the first quarter.
The Raiders responded on the following series with a 12-play, 70-yard touchdown drive of their own, tying the game 7-7. Despite a solid defensive effort, the Chiefs struggled to contain Las Vegas Tight End Brock Bowers, who converted a critical 19-yard pass to extend the drive. Kansas City’s defensive coverage on tight ends has been a concern throughout the season, with Bowers adding to that trend.
On the next possession, Kansas City’s offense stalled, converting only one first down before a three-and-out. Mistimed throws and a penalty on the offensive line disrupted the Chiefs’ rhythm, forcing a punt that gave the Raiders control late in the first quarter.
Chiefs Regain Momentum Before Halftime
The second quarter saw the Kansas Chiefs defense begin to pressure Raiders Quarterback Gardner Minshew, breaking up his perfect passing streak. George Karlaftis tipped a pass at the line, leading to a Las Vegas field goal. Daniel Carlson’s 54-yard kick was good, giving the Raiders a 10-7 lead with 10:13 left in the quarter.
Kansas City responded with a 13-play, 70-yard drive, culminating in a five-yard touchdown pass from Mahomes to Kelce. This marked Patrick Mahomes’ first touchdown pass this month, and the Chiefs retook the lead 14-10 with less than two minutes to play in the first half. The Chiefs’ offense then capitalized on Las Vegas’ ensuing three-and-out, quickly driving down the field for a Harrison Butker 42-yard field goal as time expired, extending their lead to 17-10 at halftime.
Mahomes crossed the 30,000-yard career passing mark during this drive, setting an NFL record for the fastest player ever to this milestone doing so in just 103 games. The Kansas City Chiefs entered halftime with a balanced offensive showing and a seven-point lead.
Defensive Stand Keeps Chiefs Ahead
The Raiders’ opening drive of the third quarter ended in a punt, as the Chiefs defense forced a three-and-out. Kansas City, however, struggled offensively, with pressure from the Raiders defense leading to dropped passes and an eventual punt back to Las Vegas. The Raiders capitalized on a favorable field position, driving into Kansas City’s red zone, but the Kansas City Chiefs defense held strong, forcing Las Vegas to settle for a 32-yard field goal, cutting the lead to 17-13.
On the Chiefs’ next series, Mahomes threw an interception, his ninth of the season after a tipped pass at the line. The Raiders advanced within striking distance, but the Kansas City Chiefs defense delivered a goal-line stand, with Tershawn Wharton and Karlaftis combining for a critical sack. Kansas City took over deep in their own territory with a four-point lead, effectively preserving their advantage as the third quarter wound down.
The Kansas City Chiefs defense continued its strong play, matching a season-high with five sacks by the end of the quarter. The entire defensive line made major contributions in this game, along with solid secondary coverage, made it difficult for Minshew throughout the second half.
Kansas City Chiefs Seal Victory In Fourth Quarter
Kansas City began the fourth quarter with their longest drive of the game — a 19-play, 87-yard march that ended with a 24-yard Butker field goal, extending their lead to 20-13. This drive showcased the Chiefs’ patience and control, eating valuable time off the clock and keeping Minshew and the Raiders’ offense on the sideline.
The Chiefs’ defense added to their strong performance when Mike Pennel sacked Minshew, forcing a fumble that Drue Tranquil recovered. Kansas City quickly capitalized on the turnover, ending the drive with a nine-yard touchdown pass from Mahomes to Xavier Worthy, giving them a 27-13 lead with under five minutes left to play.
Las Vegas mounted a late response, driving 70 yards in 13 plays and scoring a touchdown to narrow the gap to 27-20. With just over two minutes remaining, the Raiders attempted an onside kick, which was recovered by Kansas City. The Kansas City Chiefs proceeded to run out the clock in victory formation, securing their seventh win of the season.
Final Thoughts
With this victory, the Kansas City Chiefs moved to 7-0, and once again showcased their championship valor and execution in key moments. Mahomes continued to come through in the biggest moments, while the Kansas City Chiefs had six receivers go for at least 20 receiving yards and Hunt continued to provide essential yards on the ground. The Kansas City Chiefs defense, which recorded a season-high in sacks, once again was the driving force behind securing this win, particularly with their goal-line stand and forced a turnover late that shifted the game’s momentum.
Up next, Kansas City will face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Arrowhead Stadium on Monday Night Football on November 4, at 9:15 p.m. EDT looking to continue building on their perfect season and even possibly break the franchise record for consecutive wins.
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