Two seasons ago, the Chiefs defeated the Eagles 38-35 in one of the most thrilling Super Bowls in recent memory. Since then, both teams have only gotten stronger. The Chiefs have added several playmakers on offense, while their already dominant defense has stepped up to another level this season. Despite not always dominating weaker competition and often winning in close games, the Chiefs racked up 15 wins, made sure the AFC again ran through Arrowhead, and turned it up in the postseason, knocking off strong contenders in the Texans and Bills to give themselves a chance at a historic third consecutive Super Bowl victory.
Photo Cred: CBS Sports
The Eagles, meanwhile, are back in the Big Game after a disappointing finish to last season, but this year they look better than ever. Saquon Barkley, after joining from the Giants, has had a historic season, and the Eagles’ defense features a revamped secondary behind their ferocious front seven. In a dominant 55-23 win over the Commanders, the Eagles showed their full strength, forcing three Washington fumbles and showcasing their prowess on both sides of the ball. The Chiefs, on the other hand, edged out a 32-29 thriller over the Bills, quieting any remaining doubts about their ability to compete at the highest level.
Here’s what to expect when each team has the football, and who might come out on top.
Chiefs Offense vs. Eagles Defense:
The Chiefs are coming off their best offensive performance of the season, putting up over 30 points for the first time. They approached their playoff games differently: In the win over the Texans, it was the Mahomes-Kelce show. Though aided by some favorable calls, Mahomes showed his usual improvisational brilliance, finding Xavier Worthy five times for 45 yards, but the standout connection was with tight end Travis Kelce. As usual, Kelce came up big, with 117 yards and a touchdown on just seven catches, including a highlight-reel score as he fell to the ground. Running back Kareem Hunt played a crucial role in keeping the offense balanced, contributing 44 yards on eight carries and a touchdown.
In the AFC Championship game, the Chiefs relied more on Hunt, who had 17 carries for 64 yards and a touchdown. Receiver Xavier Worthy was also used creatively, recording six catches for 85 yards and a touchdown. Mahomes added two rushing touchdowns of his own, something we haven’t seen much of in recent years, while other receivers like JuJu Smith-Schuster and Hollywood Brown also made key contributions. This was a more balanced effort compared to the Texans game, with Mahomes spreading the ball around as Kelce was somewhat neutralized by the defense.
Photo Cred: ESPN
Expect a middle ground for the Super Bowl. The Eagles bring the best defense the Chiefs have faced all season, with a relentless defensive line led by Jalen Carter and Josh Sweat. Linebackers like Zach Baun, a knack for forcing turnovers, and a secondary featuring veterans Darius Slay and Chauncey Gardner-Johnson (along with emerging rookies like Cooper DeJean and Quinyon Mitchell) make the Eagles defense formidable at all levels.
The Chiefs will need to be versatile to break down this defense. Keeping the offense two-dimensional will be crucial, with Kareem Hunt setting the tone on the ground and former Rutgers star Isiah Pacheco spelling him to keep him fresh. The Chiefs’ offensive line is solid inside but has a potential weakness at left tackle, where Joe Thuney has shifted to shore up the spot, with Mike Caliendo stepping in at left guard.
Through the air, Mahomes has a variety of weapons at his disposal. Worthy can be dangerous catching passes out of the backfield or using his speed on deep routes. Hollywood Brown is a reliable intermediate target, while DeAndre Hopkins can still make highlight-worthy catches downfield. Then there are JuJu Smith-Schuster and Justin Watson, two more pieces that keep defenses guessing. And, of course, Mahomes will always have his favorite target: Travis Kelce. Kelce, the quarterback’s ultimate safety blanket, will always find ways to get open over the middle and is sure to make a few key plays when it matters most.
While the Chiefs’ offense might not be as explosive as in past years, they have a diverse array of weapons and the best quarterback in the league, capable of making the right decision at the right time. With Mahomes’ ability to extend plays and read defenses, Kansas City’s offense should still be able to put up points, even against a defense as talented as the Eagles. In fact, they may very well top 30 points for the second game in a row.
