Although the Kansas City Chiefs will enter the playoffs as a legitimate contender, more fans and analysts have sided with other teams at this point in the season. According to an NFL analysis by ESPN, though, people may end up surprised when everything is said and done.
The Patrick Mahomes-led team has solidified their position among the elite following a decisive victory over the Los Angeles Chargers, clinching their ninth consecutive AFC West title. This win has not only boosted their confidence but also reinforced their status in various power rankings across the league. As of Week 15, Kansas City is prominently featured, ranking second in the Pro Football Focus rankings and consistently appearing near the top in other reputable lists.
Kansas City Chiefs, Patrick Mahomes, NFL
Nov 24, 2024; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) passes during the first quarter against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
In the latest analysis, Pro Football Focus praised the team, noting their ability to find solutions in challenging situations. This resilience has become a hallmark of the team, showcasing their knack for exploiting opponent weaknesses and capitalizing on crucial moments during games. Similarly, Bleacher Report echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that Kansas City is adept at discovering paths to victory, regardless of the circumstances.
The Chiefs’ impressive standing is reflected across multiple platforms. ESPN and The Sporting News have both placed them at the number two spot, while CBS Sports shares the same view. However, outlets like Yahoo! Sports and NFL.com rank them slightly lower at third, indicating a consensus that Kansas City remains a top contender as the season progresses.
As Kansas City continues their push toward the playoffs, their performance will be critical in maintaining this momentum. With star players like Mahomes and tight end Travis Kelce leading the charge, fans remain optimistic about their chances of securing another deep postseason run.
NFL Analysis Highlights Kansas City Chiefs’ Most Shocking Ranking
Kansas City Chiefs, Patrick Mahomes, NFL
Nov 29, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) rolls out to pass during the first half against the Las Vegas Raiders at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images
Unlike last season, Kansas City isn’t one of the top teams when it comes to sack percentage. This is explained more in an analysis by Adam Teicher for ESPN.
Most shocking ranking: 28th in sack percentage
The Chiefs sack opposing quarterbacks on just 5.5% of dropbacks and put pressure on them just 32% of the time, which is 22nd in the league. Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo’s defense is still blitzing 36.5% of the time, which is the third-highest mark, but it is far from the dominant pass-rushing team it was last season when the Chiefs led the NFL in sack percentage (8.8%).
Kansas City, currently ranked second in certain power rankings, are enjoying a strong season at 12-1. However, a surprising statistic has emerged: their sack percentage stands at just 28th in the league, with only 5.5% of dropbacks resulting in sacks.
Kansas City Chiefs, Patrick Mahomes, NFL
Nov 29, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) is sacked by Las Vegas Raiders defensive end K’Lavon Chaisson (44) during the first half at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images
This marks a significant decline from last season when they led the league in this category. Despite their defensive struggles, Kansas City has remained a formidable contender, but improving their pass rush will be crucial as they aim for another Super Bowl title.
Kansas City Chiefs, Patrick Mahomes, NFL
Nov 29, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) throws a pass against the Las Vegas Raiders during the first half at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images
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