In a heart-pounding finish at Arrowhead Stadium, the Kansas City Chiefs triumphed over the Denver Broncos 16-14, thanks to a game-saving block by linebacker Leo Chenal.
Mahomes’ Calm Amid the Chaos
Patrick Mahomes wasn’t exactly sure the Chiefs would manage to block the field goal attempt that could have handed the Broncos the win with just one second left. But he held onto a glimmer of hope.
“If anyone’s going to do it, this team’s going to have a designed rush or designed way to get a hand on it,” Mahomes remarked post-game. “You’re obviously worried. It’s out of your control, but at the same time, I’ve trusted my teammates that they’re going to go out there and make a play.”
And make a play they did. With the clock winding down, Wil Lutz lined up for a 35-yard attempt that would have sealed the game for Denver. But Chenal, showing nerves of steel, leapt into action. He got a solid hand on the kick, blocking it and sending the Chiefs into a victorious frenzy.
The Block Heard Around Arrowhead
Chenal’s block wasn’t just another play; it was a statement. This wasn’t his first rodeo when it comes to clutch moments.
- Super Bowl LVIII: Blocked a point-after-touchdown try, helping the Chiefs secure an overtime win.
- Sunday’s Game: Blocked a 35-yard field goal with one second left, ensuring the Chiefs stay undefeated.
“The moment is heavy,” Chenal said. “You feel the weight of the moment.”
Andy Reid, in his 26th season as an NFL head coach, admitted he’s never seen a game won with a blocked kick on the final play. “We work on that block like crazy but it doesn’t normally work like that,” Reid commented.
Chenal’s Versatility:
| Season | Draft Round | Positions Played |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 3rd | Linebacker, Defensive Lineman, Offensive Blocker |
Chenal, the Chiefs’ third-round pick in 2022, has been a jack-of-all-trades for Kansas City. Whether lining up on defense or stepping onto the offensive line, his adaptability has been a boon for the team.
Chiefs’ Undefeated Streak: A Season of Last Plays
This victory adds to an impressive list of walk-off wins the Chiefs have secured this season. So far, they’ve triumphed in dramatic fashion against:
- Baltimore Ravens (Week 1)
- Cincinnati Bengals (Week 2)
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Week 9)
Mahomes reflected on these moments, highlighting the team’s resilience. “You live for these moments,” he said. “When you grow up playing football, you live for the walk-off, whatever it is.”
Despite the high drama, Mahomes and the team prefer securing wins in a more controlled manner. But when the opportunity for a dramatic finish arises, the Chiefs are ready to seize it.
Broncos: Tough Opponents but Chiefs Prevail
While the Chiefs celebrated, the Broncos weren’t going down without a fight. Denver scored a touchdown early in the second quarter, taking a 7-0 lead and maintaining the upper hand until Harrison Butker’s third field goal nudged the Chiefs ahead 16-14 with six minutes remaining.
“We outplayed them,” Broncos coach Sean Payton stated. “They play extremely hard. They’re well coached. They do a good job of mixing coverages and then they make you execute throughout the entire field.”
Mahomes agreed, acknowledging the Broncos’ toughness. “They play extremely hard,” he reiterated. “They’re well coached. They do a good job of mixing coverages and then they make you execute throughout the entire field.”
The game was a chess match, with both teams making strategic moves. In the end, it was the Chiefs’ last-second block that made all the difference.
Looking Ahead: Chiefs vs. Bills
With a 9-0 record, the Chiefs are heading to Buffalo to face the Bills on Nov. 17. Maintaining their undefeated streak is crucial, and Mahomes is confident in his team’s ability to continue their winning ways.
“There’s a lot to look forward to,” Mahomes said. “We have a great team, and we’re ready to take on Buffalo.”
Upcoming Games:
- Nov. 17: Chiefs vs. Bills at Buffalo
- Nov. 24: Chiefs vs. [Opponent]
- Dec. 1: Chiefs vs. [Opponent]
The Chiefs are gearing up for what promises to be an exciting stretch of games. With players like Mahomes and Chenal stepping up, Kansas City is poised to keep their unbeaten run alive.
