CNN —
The Kansas City Chiefs executed an astonishing victory on Sunday afternoon, thwarting a 35-yard field goal attempt by Denver Broncos kicker Wil Lutz as time expired to secure a thrilling 16-14 win, pushing their record to a flawless 9-0 this season.
With this hard-fought victory, the Chiefs extended their remarkable win streak to 15 consecutive games, including playoff victories, a remarkable feat that dates back to December 25, 2024, when they faced their last defeat against the Las Vegas Raiders on Christmas day. This win streak ties the longest in NFL history since the Green Bay Packers achieved an impressive 19 consecutive victories from 2010 to 2011.
Trailing narrowly at 14-13 during the critical moments of the fourth quarter, Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes orchestrated a brilliant offensive drive, moving swiftly downfield to set up Harrison Butker’s field goal, thus taking a crucial 16-14 lead with just under six minutes left to play—marking the first time the Chiefs held the lead in the game.
On the subsequent possession, Denver’s offense, spearheaded by rookie quarterback Bo Nix, demonstrated resilience as they converted three critical third downs, methodically advancing down the field to position Lutz for a potential game-winning kick from 35-yards out with only one second remaining on the clock.
However, the Chiefs’ defense showcased its mettle when it mattered most, with Leo Chenal leading a group of Kansas City defenders who broke through the Broncos’ offensive line, successfully blocking Lutz’s potential game-winning kick—a monumental defensive play that sealed their victory.
“I thought our defense stepped up in that second half and did a great job, so I was just happy, I was happy that we ended with that block. Leo got through there, and it was just joy after that,” Mahomes expressed with visible excitement after the game.
“It’s awesome; you live for these moments. I mean, we grow up playing football, and you live for the walk-off whatever-it-is. It’s special when you build these guys for so long, and you create chemistry with them, and then guys get to make that play at such a crucial moment,” he added, reflecting on the thrilling conclusion.
Meanwhile, Chenal described the dramatic final play as a “complete shock,” emblematic of the tension surrounding him.
“Not much I can say about it. I was really praying for something to happen. That moment is so heavy. There’s a second on the clock; they’re going to kick a field goal and you feel the weight of the moment,” he explained, encapsulating the nerve-wracking atmosphere.
Mahomes finished the contest with an impressive 266 passing yards and one touchdown, allowing the Chiefs to match their best start to a season in franchise history while remaining the only undefeated team in the NFL.
“Obviously, a tough loss,” Broncos head coach Sean Payton lamented after the game. “It felt like we outplayed them, but we didn’t finish. We had an opportunity to win right at the end. We controlled the ball, but we have to be able to finish. That one will take a while; it will sting.”
Sunday’s victory added yet another thrilling chapter to the Chiefs’ remarkable season, showcasing their resilience and tenacity as they continue to find ways to win while pursuing a historic third consecutive Super Bowl title.
In Week 1, Mahomes and his talented squad managed to hold on for a narrow defeat of the Baltimore Ravens, edging them out 27-20 in a match that came down to the very last play. In an intense rematch of last season’s AFC Championship, Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson unleashed a pass to Isaiah Likely Jr. in the back of the end zone for what appeared to be a touchdown, but a meticulous review revealed his toe was out of bounds.
The subsequent week brought a thrilling contest against the Cincinnati Bengals, where, despite a challenging three-turnover game, Kansas City was engaged in a high-stakes shootout. With only three seconds left on the clock and trailing by two points, Butker was clutch again, nailing a 51-yard field goal as time expired to give the Chiefs a narrow 26-25 victory.
The defending Super Bowl champions narrowly escaped defeat in their match against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers last week, securing a 30-24 victory in an intense game that went to overtime. After trailing 17-10 at the end of the third quarter, Mahomes rallied, delivering two touchdown passes in the final quarter to pull his team ahead.
However, the Buccaneers responded fiercely with a Baker Mayfield touchdown pass to Ryan Miller, leveling the score at 24-24 and forcing the game into overtime. It was in overtime that Mahomes masterfully directed a crucial drive, culminating in a two-yard touchdown run by Kareem Hunt to clinch the hard-fought victory.
Looking ahead, Kansas City is scheduled to travel to Buffalo for a highly anticipated matchup against a formidable Bills team, currently boasting an impressive 8-2 record, in a significant clash between AFC powerhouses on November 17.
Clock, Mahomes delivered a clutch 40-yard touchdown pass to his star receiver, Tyreek Hill, sealing a dramatic 31-28 win. This match further underscored the Chiefs’ ability to thrive under pressure and their penchant for executing decisive plays when it counts.
Following their strong start in Weeks 1 and 2, the Chiefs faced off against the Miami Dolphins in Week 3. Despite a tough matchup, they managed to outlast the Dolphins, winning 24-21. The game was marked by a stunning interception return for a touchdown by Chiefs safety Justin Reid, which proved to be the turning point in a closely contested game.
As the season progresses, the Chiefs’ strong defensive unit complements their high-octane offense, making them a formidable contender in the league. With Mahomes at the helm, their ability to adapt and execute in critical moments bodes well for their aspirations of not only maintaining their undefeated streak but also claiming another championship title in the upcoming postseason.
Looking ahead, the Chiefs will face their division rivals, the Los Angeles Chargers, next week. Both teams are known for their explosive plays and fierce competition, setting the stage for yet another exciting chapter in the 2025 NFL season as Kansas City aims to extend their impressive win streak and solidify their dominance.