The Kansas City Chiefs edged out the Buffalo Bills 32-29 in the AFC Championship, thanks in large part to their dominant blocking. The offensive line opened lanes for Kareem Hunt and gave Patrick Mahomes the time he needed to make key plays. Special teams also contributed with a well-timed punt return that helped shift momentum. With the game hanging in the balance, every block mattered.
Establishing the Run
Kareem Hunt rushed for 64 yards on 17 carries, adding another postseason touchdown to his career total. The Chiefs used smart pre-snap motion to confuse the Bills’ defense, setting up a well-executed counter play. Joe Thuney, Trey Smith, and Jawaan Taylor created the perfect lane for Hunt, who powered through defenders into the end zone.
Kansas City continued using motion to manipulate Buffalo’s linebackers, creating favorable angles in the run game. Another big play saw Smith and Taylor clear space while Mike Caliendo and Travis Kelce provided key blocks. Hunt capitalized, fighting through tackles for extra yards. Though the stats didn’t stand out, the Chiefs ran the ball effectively when it mattered.
Protecting Mahomes
The offensive line also delivered in pass protection, keeping Mahomes upright against Buffalo’s aggressive defense. The Bills used various stunts and blitzes, but Kansas City’s linemen held strong, allowing Mahomes to find his targets downfield.
A key example came when Buffalo sent a stunt from both edges, but the Chiefs’ linemen communicated perfectly to pick it up. This protection gave Mahomes time to hit Hollywood Brown for a big gain. Later, during a crucial two-point conversion, the Bills blitzed with seven defenders, but the offensive line held firm while Hunt provided an extra block, allowing Mahomes to deliver a clutch pass to Justin Watson.
Impact on Special Teams
Blocking wasn’t just key on offense—it played a role in special teams as well. Nikko Remigio’s big punt return gave Kansas City great field position, thanks to crucial blocks from Chris Roland-Wallace, Chammari Conner, and Justin Watson. Watson’s all-out effort helped spring Remigio for a big gain, showcasing the team’s commitment to doing the dirty work.
Winning the Battle in the Trenches
The Chiefs’ ability to dominate in the trenches set the tone for their victory. Whether clearing paths for the run game, protecting Mahomes, or making key special teams plays, their effort and execution stood out. In a game defined by physicality and determination, Kansas City proved they wanted it more.
