Chiefs Navigate Unfamiliar Territory Trailing in AFC West
The Kansas City Chiefs find themselves in uncharted waters this season. Following a disappointing 0-2 start, marked by a Super Bowl rematch loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, they are now confronted with a significant challenge. As they head into Week 3, the Chiefs will trail by two games in the AFC West, regardless of the outcome of Monday night’s clash between the Los Angeles Chargers and Las Vegas Raiders.
Challenging Times Ahead
While the Chiefs have shown resilience in overcoming in-game deficits throughout Patrick Mahomes’ tenure, this season presents a new hurdle: an in-season deficit that they have yet to experience under his leadership. The stakes have never been higher as they attempt to regain their footing in a competitive division.
A Look Back at Past Struggles
The last time the Chiefs started a season with an 0-2 record was in 2014, a year that ultimately saw them miss the playoffs. That season marked a stark contrast to the current Chiefs’ identity, with only head coach Andy Reid and tight end Travis Kelce remaining from that roster. At that time, Mahomes was just a freshman at Texas Tech, and the notion of a Chiefs dynasty was nothing more than a pipe dream, despite Reid’s efforts to revitalize the franchise in 2013.
In 2014, Kansas City managed a winning record, finishing the season at 9-7. However, a late-season slump, including four losses in their final six games, was enough to derail their playoff hopes. A win by backup quarterback Chase Daniel, stepping in for the injured Alex Smith, ultimately fell short of securing a postseason berth.
Playoff Chances for 0-2 Teams
Historically, the odds are not in favor of teams that start a season with two losses. Statistically, only a small percentage of teams that begin 0-2 manage to secure a spot in the playoffs. The Chiefs will need to harness their experience and talent to defy those odds and reignite their championship aspirations.
As the 2023 season progresses, the Chiefs must confront this unprecedented situation head-on, drawing on their past experiences and the leadership of Mahomes and Reid to navigate the challenges that lie ahead. The road to recovery begins now.
