Chiefs vs. Broncos Preview: Mahomes Faces Denver Test

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From Game Time Decisions

Chiefs Face a Difficult Test Against Denver

With Xavier Worthy and Rashee Rice on the field, Patrick Mahomes has far more options in the passing game than he had with Worthy and a few tight ends. That will be important if Kansas City cannot establish its running game against Denver’s defense.

Denver’s offense appears more challenged than Seattle’s, which always seems capable of finding a way to score. Kansas City’s loss in Seattle came in a difficult spot against a team expected to improve over the second half of the season. It does not mean the Chiefs’ earlier success was a mirage.

Playing in Denver is never easy, and the Broncos have been strong at home this season. However, Kansas City is still viewed as the better overall team.

The biggest concern for the Chiefs is their kicking game. NFL games can become tighter at this stage of the season, and Harrison Butker has not been dependable. If Kansas City needs a late field goal to win a close game, there is uncertainty about whether it can convert. Denver currently has the advantage at kicker.

The Broncos should improve offensively after struggling for much of the season, but the Chiefs remain the pick in this divisional matchup. Receiving 1.5 points is not a significant underdog position, especially in a rivalry between teams that know each other well.

Mahomes failed to reach the red zone against Seattle for the first time in his career. Seattle’s defensive performance may offer a blueprint, but Rice’s return changes the outlook for Kansas City’s passing game. This is not the same version of Mahomes from two or three years ago, though the Chiefs still have a strong running game that Denver must account for.