It doesn't appear to matter that the Kansas City Chiefs "aren't" what they used to be; the aura and shadow that Andy Reid's team still casts over the NFL is huge.
At 5-4, the Chiefs, as it currently stands, would be watching the playoffs from the couch, but this Chiefs team still has a lot of credits in the bank, and with the Denver Broncos up next, this is a huge game in the context of the division.
The 8-2 Broncos currently hold first place, with the Chiefs third, but that doesn't appear to move people when predicting the outcome of this Week 11 contest.
CBS Sports' John Breech is expecting Mahomes, who is 13-1 in his career against Denver, to again deliver the goods on the road.
"If the Broncos win, I promise to start trusting them, but I won't be picking against the Chiefs in a must-win divisional showdown until someone proves they can actually beat them," Breech wrote.
More: Why Chiefs are still among AFC top dogs in latest NFL power rankings
Mahomes to extend incredible Broncos record in Week 11?
In his career, he has only lost once to the Broncos, while winning 13 is impressive, then again, what isn't about No. 15?
His last loss came in 2023 in Week 9, when Denver beat the Chiefs 24-9 at home.
Other than that, you could make the case that the Chiefs own the Broncos in every facet.
With Denver struggling offensively, but its defense playing at an elite level, this will be a tough outing for Mahomes, but the Broncos haven't proved they can consistently beat the Chiefs.
A 1-13 record against Mahomes is such a one-sided contest.
Will Mahomes make it 14 wins from his last 15 games against Denver? You'd be a fool to bet against him.
More Chiefs news:
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- 'No more chances' for Chiefs after Bills loss
- Chiefs face 'uphill battle' after crushing Bills loss
- Is Travis Kelce injured? Chiefs TE a no-show in first half vs. Bills