The Kansas City Chiefs have a knack for keeping their games exciting, often opting for nail-biting finishes rather than dominating blowouts. Despite their long-standing dominance in the league, their recent performances have been characterized by narrow victories. Following their 22-17 win over the Atlanta Falcons, OptaSTATS highlighted a remarkable statistic: the Chiefs have won their last nine games by a combined total of just 54 points, including last year’s playoffs. This marks the smallest cumulative margin of victory for any team during a 9-0 stretch in NFL history.
The Chiefs have won their last 9 games by a combined total of just 54 points (including playoffs).
That's the smallest combined margin of victory by any team during a 9-0 stretch in NFL history. pic.twitter.com/eUptEjX9UB
— OptaSTATS (@OptaSTATS) September 23, 2024
This statistic dates back to the Chiefs’ Week 17 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals in 2023. Since then, every game they have played, with the exception of a 26-7 win over the Miami Dolphins in last year’s postseason, has been decided by eight points or less.
While the Chiefs sit at a perfect 3-0 to start the 2024 season, they could easily be 0-3, highlighting the fine margins at play. Several interpretations arise from this reality. One perspective suggests that luck has been on the Chiefs’ side, and their inconsistent performance and injury woes may eventually catch up to them.
Alternatively, there’s the widespread belief among rival fanbases that the league and its officials favor the Chiefs. With stars like Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce, along with Kelce’s high-profile relationship with music icon Taylor Swift, it’s easy to see why some might assume the NFL prefers Kansas City to thrive. However, those who have watched the Chiefs this season know that they have faced their fair share of unfavorable calls.
The most compelling explanation for the Chiefs’ ability to consistently win close games is their exceptional skill in clutch situations. Almost every time Mahomes has the ball on a decisive drive, he orchestrates a game-winning score. Opposing defenses often struggle to contain him during critical moments, fearing his ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs.
Furthermore, the Chiefs’ defense plays a crucial role in sealing games. Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo, regarded as one of the best in the business, excels at making pivotal calls in high-pressure situations. Just as they did against the Falcons, the Chiefs’ defense shines on third and fourth downs, effectively shutting down opposing offenses and forcing mistakes through sacks or errant throws.
With this combination of clutch performances from both their offense and defense, the Kansas City Chiefs continue to prove themselves as the most clutch team in NFL history, thriving in moments where others might falter.