Chiefs' record in one-score games the key to dynasty downfall

Adam Schultz

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Chiefs' record in one-score games the key to dynasty downfall image

The Kansas City Chiefs, under the guidance of Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid, have been inevitable in close games for years.

The aura surrounding No. 15 in the fourth quarter is Tom Brady-like, and more often than not, if given the ball down late in the fourth quarter, Mahomes and the Chiefs will make "the" play and walk down the field, score a touchdown, and come off the field as winners.

Last year, the Chiefs were bulletproof in one-score games, going 12-0, including the playoffs, as they just had a knack for getting the job done.

But 2025 hasn't been as kind. In fact, things have done a full 360.

So far, the Chiefs are 0-5 in one-score games. Yikes.

For whatever reason, the close-game magic is gone. The Chiefs don't make "the" play they need, or the defense doesn't get the crucial stop. Both tie in together, and that has led to all of Kansas City's losses this season being by one score.

Maybe the tide truly is turning.

More: When did Chiefs last miss the playoffs? Patrick Mahomes in danger of snapping decade-long streak

Chiefs need to rediscover close-game form

With a handful of games remaining, and some decent teams in the Broncos, Indianapolis Colts, and the Los Angeles Chargers in its way, Kansas City is going to have to find a formula to win games.

And odds are that some are going to come down to the wire.

The tide has to turn eventually, right?

The Chiefs have been in a position to win those close games, but just can't do enough to get themselves over the line in crunch time.

That has to change, and there is no denying that Kansas City's "aura" has dissipated as well, with teams no longer as afraid of the AFC champs.

They need to get that fear factor back; otherwise, they might be watching the playoffs from the couch.

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Contributing Writer