Chiefs Enter Bye Week Outside AFC Playoff Picture After Latest Loss

The Kansas City Chiefs enter their bye week with a 5-4 record and outside the AFC playoff picture for the first time since Patrick Mahomes became their starter in 2018. This season has been marked by inconsistency and close losses, with the Chiefs falling 0-4 in one-score games after having a perfect 12-0 record in such games last year. Mahomes had his worst performance of the season in the recent loss to the Buffalo Bills, largely due to poor offensive line protection, facing pressure on over half of his dropbacks. The Chiefs face a critical stretch upon return, including key matchups against AFC West leader Denver Broncos and other strong opponents, with little margin for error to secure a playoff spot. Mahomes emphasized the need for the team to learn quickly from their losses and improve consistency to overcome the adversity they currently face. Despite the challenging situation, there is confidence in the team's ability to rise to the occasion and turn their season around.