KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Kansas City Chiefs secured their ninth consecutive AFC West championship on Sunday night in a nail-biting 19-17 victory over the Los Angeles Chargers. The game, capped by a last-second 31-yard field goal from third-string kicker Matthew Wright, showcased the resilience that has defined the Chiefs’ season.
The win, improving Kansas City to 12-1, highlighted the team’s knack for performing under pressure. It marked the sixth game this season decided on the final play. Wright, stepping in for injured kickers Harrison Butker and Spencer Shrader, delivered yet again, bouncing his game-winning kick off the left upright before it sailed through.
“It’s always our first goal to win the AFC West, and it’s a tough division,” quarterback Patrick Mahomes said. “This year, three teams from our division could make the playoffs, which says a lot about the competition we face. Now, it’s about building toward our ultimate goal.”
With four games left in the regular season, the Chiefs now shift their focus to securing the AFC’s No. 1 playoff seed, which would grant them a first-round bye and home-field advantage throughout the postseason. They hold a two-game lead over the Buffalo Bills and Pittsburgh Steelers, both sitting at 10-3.
Chiefs head coach Andy Reid praised the team for maintaining their composure in close games. “Every season is different, and this year has been full of tight finishes,” Reid said. “The guys believe in each other and fight to the end. That’s what makes this team special.”
The Chiefs celebrated their division title with championship hats and T-shirts but were quick to emphasize the work ahead. “We’re not done yet,” Reid said. “We’ve got four games left, and we’re playing teams hungry to make the playoffs. We need to stay aggressive and keep improving.”
Wright’s contributions have been invaluable since joining the Chiefs, with eight field goals in two games, including a perfect 4-for-4 performance against the Chargers. Reid acknowledged his pivotal role, adding, “My hat’s off to him. That final kick wasn’t easy, but he delivered when we needed him most.”
As the Chiefs prepare for their final stretch, they aim to continue their dominance while keeping their eyes firmly set on Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans.