Hits: 117

1963: After conceding Dallas to the Cowboys, the Dallas Texans became the Kansas City Chiefs. Ironically there once was a NFL team named the Kansas City Cowboys. The defending AFL Champions got ready for their first season in Kansas City with one of the strongest drafts ever. Buck Buchanan, Ed Budde and Bobby Bell, became starters right away and would play a combined 526 games with the Chiefs. However, another rookie Stone Johnson would never make it to his rookie season, after sustaining a serious spinal cord injury, which would lead to his untimely death. The Chiefs would go on to retire his number 33 in his honor. The heavy hearted Chiefs started their first season in Kansas City win with a 59-7 victory over the Broncos in Denver, but managed just one win and two ties in its next nine games on their way to a disappointing 5-7-2 record.

1964: The Chiefs struggled to a 7-7 record as many of the team’s best players, including E.J. Holub, Fred Arbanas and Johnny Robinson, missed several games with injuries. An average of just 18,126 fans attended each home game, prompting discussion at the AFL owners’ meeting about the Chiefs future in Kansas City.

1965: The Chiefs made Kansas star Gale Sayers their first-round draft pick, but lost him in a bidding war with the Chicago Bears. However, the Chiefs were able to nab wide receiver Otis Taylor from Prairie View. Tragedy also hit the Chiefs again when Running Back Mack Lee Hill died on the operating table after relatively routine knee surgery late in the season. The Chiefs would go on to finish with a 7-5-2 record losing three games by a Field Goal or less.

1966: The Chiefs make another big improvement through the draft signing Running Back Mike Garrett even though he was also drafted by his hometown Los Angeles Rams. After starting the season 3-0 on the road, a crowd of 43,885, the largest ever to witness a sports event in Kansas City, turned out for the home opener against the defending AFL champion Buffalo Bills, the home opener against the defending AFL champion Buffalo Bills. The Chiefs dropped a 29-14 decision to the Bills, but, after the contest, Chiefs coach Hank Stram and Buffalo head coach Joe Collier negotiated a trade in the middle of the field. Kansas City got kicker Mike Mercer for a fifth-round pick, solidifying one of the few weaknesses on the squad. The Chiefs would go on to finish with an 11-2-1 record, winning the Western Division by three games to set up rematch with Bills in Buffalo in the AFL Championship Game. Using a dazzling I-formation offense and a smothering defense, the Chiefs dominated the Bills in Buffalo, 31-7, on New Year’s Day to win the franchise’s second AFL crown and earned a place in the first AFL-NFL World Championship Game.

Super Bowl I: Lamar Hunt who was the driving force behind the formation of AFL won a major victory when the NFL and AFL agreed to play a World Championship game after the season. So it was only appropriate that his Chiefs were the AFL’s reprehensive in the first of these games billed as the AFL-NFL Championship Game. Initially the game did not get much attention as everyone assumed that the Chiefs were no-match for the powerful Green Bay Packers who won the NFL Championship. The game was not even sold out as the Los Angeles Coliseum only was filled to 2/3 of capacity. The Chiefs would manage to stay close for a half only trailing 14-10 at halftime, but the Packers would turn on the after burners scoring 21 unanswered points in the second half for the 35-10 victory. However, the game would be the beginning of a tradition and within a few years would become the premier sporting event in America. The game would eventually be called the “Super Bowl”, a name that Lamar Hunt himself came up with after seeing his daughter playing with a Super Ball.

1967: Coming off their berth in the First Super Bowl, interest in the team skyrocketed, forcing an increase in seating capacity at Kansas City Municipal Stadium from 40,000 to 47,000. Later in the year, Jackson County voters approved a $43 million bond issue for construction of a sports complex. However, success on the field was much harder to come by as injuries hit the club hard as the Chiefs clawed their way to a 9-5 record.

1968: With Quarterback Len Dawson leading the AFL in passing for the fourth time in his career the Chiefs finished with a 12-2 record, which was good enough to finish in a first pace tie with Oakland Raiders. This would force a Divisional Playoff in Oakland, where the Chiefs were blitzed 41-6, as the Raiders advanced to the AFL Championship Game in New York.

1969: Ten years after Lamar Hunt helped create the AFL the league which no one thought would last, was playing its final season. However, the league, which no one took seriously when it was first formed, was not folding instead it was becoming part of the NFL following the 1969 season. Three years after a merger to form a common draft and the Super Bowl III AFL finally had the legitimacy it sought for years when the New York Jets stunned the Baltimore Colts, This set the stage for the NFL to take over the AFL, keeping the league intact, while adding three NFL teams so both the newly billed AFC, and NFC would have 13 teams apiece. Although the move ended the AFL as a separate league it would only make pro-football stronger, and would prove to be a victory for Lamar Hunt and the misfit AFL owners, who would now be on equal footing with the NFL owners, and teams. The Chiefs opened the final AFL season with impressive wins over San Diego and Boston, but lost Quarterback Len Dawson with a knee injury. The next week, backup Jacky Lee went down with a broken ankle, leaving the team’s most crucial position in the hands of two-year pro Mike Livingston. In his first game Livingston struggled in a loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. However Livingston would bounce back and the Chiefs would win their next seven games before losing at home to their nemeses the Oakland Raiders. As the season was winding down Len Dawson returned, but after the Chiefs lost to the Raiders again the Chiefs were forced to settle for second place with an 11-3 record. However, the AFL in its final year gave a playoff spot to their division runner-ups so they could get an extra round of playoffs. In the first Round of the Playoffs the Chiefs were matched up with the defending Super Bowl Champion Jets in New York. The Chiefs defense would dominate all game shutting down Joe Namath, and holding the Jets to 6 points as the Chiefs advanced to the AFL Championship 13-6. However, if the Chiefs were going to get back to the Super Bowl they would have to beat their Nemeses in Oakland. As if it were pre-ordained the Chiefs defense would be up to the task again, in the game that would be the final game in AFL history, holding the Raiders to just seven points, to win the final AFL Championship 17-7 and advance to their second Super Bowl. The Chiefs would become the only AFL franchise to win three Championships counting their years in Dallas.

Super Bowl IV: When the Chiefs participated in Super Bowl I the game was seen as an exhibition more than a championship, as no one gave them a chance to beat the powerful Green Bay Packers. However, after the Jets beat the Baltimore Colts in Super Bowl III the game was viewed as a legitimate championship, as the AFL proved it was on equal footing with the NFL. With a full merger coming this game would be the last AFL-NFL Super Bowl, and the Chiefs used the game as a crusade for the American Football League, and wore patches on their jerseys saying “AFL-10,” which referred to the league’s ten year existence. This time the Chiefs opponents were the Minnesota Vikings, and their fierce defense; once again nobody gave the Chiefs a chance to win as they were listed as 12-point underdogs for the game played in New Orleans. However, the motivated Chiefs would take a 16-0 lead into halftime thanks to a Mike Garrett Touchdown and three Jan Stenerude Field Goals. The Chiefs would seal them game in the 3rd Quarter on a dynamic 46-yard touchdown pass from Super Bowl MVP Len Dawson to Otis Taylor. The Chiefs would go on to win the game 23-7which evened the AFL’s record in Super Bowls to 2-2, and once and for all proved the league was for real, and was worthy of the coming merger.

1970: Despite injuries to key players and the trade of Mike Garrett to the Chargers, the Chiefs finished the year with a 7-5-2 record, but did not qualify for the playoffs.

1971: With Otis Taylor leading the NFL in receiving yards and Ed Podolak becoming the team’s top rusher. The Chiefs once again became one of the top teams in the AFC. Also helping to lead the Chiefs was the linebacking trio of Willie Lanier, Bobby Bell and Jim Lynch was the league’s best. In the season’s next-to-last game with the Oakland Raiders, a late field goal by Stenerude gave the Chiefs a 16-14 victory and a Western Division title. The team finished with a 10-3-1 mark, one-and-a-half games ahead of Oakland. In the first Round of the playoffs the Chiefs hosted the Miami Dolphins in the final game at Kansas City Municipal Stadium on Christmas Day. Chiefs Running Back Ed Podolack would have a career game accounting for 350 All-Purpose Yards, but the Chiefs were unable to win the game as Kicker Jan Stenerude missed on several opportunities. The Dolphins and Chiefs would battle late into the second Overtime, as the game became the longest in NFL history. The Dolphins would go on to win the game 27-24 on a Garo Yupremian Field Goal to advance to the AFC Championship.

1972: The Chiefs had allot to be proud of heading into the 1972 season, as owner and founder Lamar Hunt became the first AFL figure to gain entry into the NFL Hall of Fame. The Chiefs also could be proud of their new home Arrowhead Stadium, which was the most state-of-the-art stadium in the NFL, and with it’s luxury boxes was years ahead of its time. On September 17th the Chiefs hosted the Miami Dolphins in the first game at the new stadium. However, the result was no different than the final game at Municipal Stadium as the Dolphins emerged with a 20-10 victory, on their way to an undefeated season. The Chiefs would go on to finish with an 8-6 record, missing out on the playoffs.

1973: The defense remained solid, but the offense struggled as Quarterback Len Dawson was hurt for much of the season. However, Mike Livingston led the club into first place in late November, but a pair of losses and a tie, gave the team its second straight second-place finish with a 7-5-2 record.

1974: The Chiefs age was beginning to show. Several of the club’s key players were entering the twilight of their careers, and it resulted in the team’s first losing season in 11 years, with a record of 5-9. Shortly after the season Hank Stram, the only would resign; Stram’s record in his 15 years at the helm was an impressive 124-76-10.

1975: The Chiefs would stumble out of the gate, losing their first three games in Paul Wiggin’s first season as Head Coach. The Chiefs would show flashes of their past greatness winning four of their next five games. However, injuries would cripple the team, leading to a second straight 5-9 finish. After the season Len Dawson, the top passer in Chiefs history, announced his retirement after 14 memorable seasons with the franchise.

1976: The Chiefs continue to struggle posting their third consecutive season with a record of 5-9, while finishing in fourh place in the AFC West.

1977: The Chiefs suffered their worst season ever, winning only twice. Tom Bettis replaced Paul Wiggin at mid-season as the team’s head coach, but was able to win just one game in seven tries, as the Chiefs posted a dreadful 2-12 record.

1978: Marv Levy, the former head coach of the Canadian Football League’s Montreal Alouettes, was named head coach. His first four draft picks were defensive players, including standout Defensive End Art Still of Kentucky and Linebacker Gary Spani of Kansas State. Meanwhile, on offense the Chiefs had the second-most productive ground game in the league and a record 5 different runners had 100-yard games, including Tony Reed, the team’s first 1000-yard back in 11 years. However, the ended the season with a 4-12 record.

1979: After a 1-3 start Quarterback Mike Livingston is replaced by rookie Steve Fuller, who helps improve the Chiefs with a 7-9 record.

1980: In a then-controversial move, the Chiefs released Stenerude, the club’s all-time leading scorer, in favor of journeyman Nick Lowery, who had been cut 11 times by eight different teams. After a 0-4 start the Chiefs defense comes age with Defensive End Art Still, Linebacker Garry Spani, and Saftey Gary Barbaro and Cornerback Gary Green playing major roles to lead the Chiefs to an 8-8 record.

1981: The Chiefs get off to a fast start, and are at 6-2 at the midpoint of the season, which included two wins over the defending Super Bowl Champion Oakland Raiders. However, five losses in their next seven games doomed their playoff chances. However, a win in their final game over the Minnesota Vikings improved the Chiefs record to 9-7, earning them their first winning season since 1973.

1982: The Chiefs stake a major step back in a season interrupted by a two month players strike, and finish with a disappointing 3-6 record, which led to the dismissal of Head Coach Marv Levy.

1983: Tragedy strikes the Chiefs when Joe Delaney, the team’s young star Running Back, drowned trying to save the lives of three children in Monroe, Louisiana. New Head Coach John Mackovic had trouble replacing Delaney, and the club’s running game suffered as the Chiefs struggled to finish 6-10.

1984: Rookie Nose Tackle Bill Maas has an immediate impact winning defensive rookie of the Year, as the Chiefs are able to improve their shaky defense. However Inconsistency marred the season as the team finished with an 8-8 record.

1985: The Chiefs got off to a flying start winning three of their first four games. One of the wins, a 28-7 drubbing of the Seattle Seahawks on September 29th, saw Safety Deron Cherry tie an NFL record with four interceptions. However, the Chiefs would lose their next 7 games on their way to a disappointing 6-10 season.

1986: The pieces started coming together for the Chiefs, who got off to a 7-3 start, but three straight losses in November, would put the Chiefs playoff chances in jeopardy. However, the Chiefs would recover with 37-10 win over the Denver Broncos at Arrowhead, which was followed by the Chiefs first win ever win over the Raiders at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, which put the Chiefs in position to reach the playoffs. On December 21st the Chiefs were able to notch a 24-19 victory in Pittsburgh over the Steelers, to earn the club an AFC Wild Card berth, which was the club’s 1st playoff appearance in 15 years. However the Chiefs would end up falling 35-15 to the Jets at the Meadowlands in the AFC Wild Card Game. After the season Head Coach John Mackovic would depart to take over the coaching reigns at the University of Texas.

1987: The Chiefs who split their first two games never recover for the player’s strike as the Chiefs replacements went 0-3. After the regulars returned the Chiefs continued to struggle losing their next four games to stand at 1-8. The Chiefs would go on to finish with a very disappointing 4-11 record.

1988: After another poor 4-11-1 season, the Chiefs would have a major shake up at the top as Carl Peterson took over as the club’s President/General Manager and Chief Operating Officer. One of his first moves would be to replace Coach Fran Ganaz, who struggled miserably in his two season at the helm. Eventually Peterson would hire Marty Schottenheimer, who had led the Browns to two straight Conference Title Appearances away from Cleveland.

1989: With the fourth overall pick in the draft the Chiefs select Butkus award winning Linebacker Derrick Thomas out of Alabama. Thomas would make an immediate impact earning Defensive Rookie of the Year honors. However, the Chiefs would get off to a slow start winning just three of their first eight games. However, the Chiefs would finish strong led by Running Back Christian Okoye set a club record and became the first Chief to lead the NFL in rushing with 1,480 yards as the team finished with an 8-7-1 record.

1990: Playing the game in honor of his father who was killed in Vietnam, Derrick Thomas has the game of his life sacking Seattle Seahawks Quarterback Dave Krieg seven times, setting a new single game record, on his way to a league leading 20 sacks. However, the effort would be in vain as Krieg beat the Chiefs 17-16 with a last-second Touchdown pass. However, the loss would only serve as a lesson for the Chiefs who up to that point had only played mediocre 5-4 football. The Chiefs would go on to win six of their final seven games to finish with an 11-5 record, and a playoff spot. In the wild card game the Chiefs were matched up with the Dolphins in Miami. The Chiefs would hold a 4th Quarter lead, but would fall as Quarterback Dan Marino led the Dolphins down the field for a late Touchdown to advance to the next round.

1991: The Chiefs enjoyed another strong 10-6 regular season. A pair of prime-time Monday night affairs highlighted the home portion of the schedule. On October 7th, the Chiefs toppled the defending AFC Champion Buffalo Bills, 33-6, in the club’s first home Monday night game in eight years. Three weeks later, the Chiefs tallied a thrilling come-from-behind 24-21 win over the Los Angeles Raiders in front of a national audience. The season was good enough to earn the Chiefs a Wild Card spot and a home playoff game for the first time in Arrowhead Stadium. In the Wild Card game against the Raiders, the Chiefs would play dominant defense forcing six turnovers in a 10-6 win that was the team’s first post season win since Super Bowl IV. A week later the Chiefs visited Buffalo for an AFC Divisional Playoff match up. The Bills dynamic offense would prove to be too much for the Chiefs in a 37-14 setback that propelled Buffalo, led by former Chiefs head Coach Marv Levy toward a second straight Super Bowl.

1992: The Chiefs battled through an injury-riddled season, during which a playoff berth never seemed certain. On the regular season’s final Sunday, the Chiefs faced the Broncos in a game that would send the winner into the playoffs. The Chiefs defense tallied three touchdowns, while Quarterback Dave Krieg tossed a pair of scoring passes as the Chiefs buried Denver 42-20. However, the Chiefs would make a quick exit form the playoffs losing 17-0 to the Chargers in San Diego. Following the season Saftey Dale Carter was named NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year.

1993: The Chiefs spent the off-season retooling their offense. On April 20, the Chiefs traded for Quarterback Joe Montana, who directed the San Francisco 49ers to four Super Bowl victories. The Chiefs swapped their first Round in the 1993 draft to the 49ers in exchange for Montana, safety David Whitmore and San Francisco’s third-round pick in 1994. Kansas City wasn’t done loading up the offense. On June 9th the club signed unrestricted free agent Running Back Marcus Allen. The additions paid off as the Chiefs went 11-5, and won their first AFC West title since 1971. Kansas City fans got its first true taste of “Montana Magic”; as the Hall of Fame Quarterback engineered a brilliant comeback in a Wild Card Round win over the Steelers. The Chiefs trailed Pittsburgh, 24-17, as the two-minute warning sounded. On fourth-and-goal from the seven, Montana fired a game-tying Touchdown pass to Wide Recevier Tim Barnett, forcing overtime, where Kicker Nick Lowery booted a 32-yard field goal as Arrowhead Stadium erupted. The Chiefs would advance to play the Oilers in a Divisional Playoff match up in Houston. The heavily favored Oilers opened up a 13-7, fourth-quarter lead, but once again, Montana had a comeback in mind. First, he hit wide Wide Receiver J.J. Birden for an 11-yard Touchdown, and then he found Wide Receiver Willie Davis open in the end zone from 18 yards out. Running Back Marcus Allen would nail the game shut with a 21-yard Touchdown dash as the Chiefs advanced to the AFC Championship Game with a 28-20 decision. However the Chiefs magic run would end in Buffalo as the Bills won their fourth straight Lamar Hunt Trophy to advance to the Super Bowl.

1994: On October 17th a Monday Nigh audience found itself enraptured by a duel of Quarterback greats Joe Montana, and John Elway of the Broncos at Mile High Stadium in Denver Elway would lead the Broncos down the field late in the 4th Quarter to take a 28-24 lead, but Montana would answer with a great drive of his own leading the Chiefs throwing a game winning Touchdown pass with seven seconds remaining. However, the Chiefs struggled through out much of the season, and sat at 8-6 heading into the final game of the season in Los Angeles against the Raiders. In the do-or-die game Running Back Marcus Allen burning his former team with 133 yards rushing en route to a 19-9 win the would secure the sixth and final playoff spot. However the Chiefs would make a quick exit from the playoffs in what would prove to be Joe Montana’s NFL swan song. The Chiefs would fall 27-17 to the Dolphins in Miami, as the Montana Magic ran out.

1995: The Chiefs jump out of the gates quickly getting off to a 10-1 start, on their way to a 13-3 season, which earned them Home Field Advantage through out the playoffs. On the way to 13-3 the Chief led the NFL in rushing, scoring defense and turnover ratio, the three hallmarks of a solid football team. The Chiefs were a favorite to go to the Super Bowl as the playoffs began. In a divisional playoff math up with Indianapolis Cots most thought the Chiefs would walk all over the over Colts who play their home games in a dome, but were now playing in an 11 degree icebox at Arrowhead. However, the Chiefs would blow several scoring opportunities as Kicker Lynn Elliot missed five Field Goal attempts in a stunning 10-7 loss that sent the Colts to the AFC Championship.

1996: The Chiefs finish with a 9-7 record and end a six year streak of making the playoffs. During the season, Running Back Marcus Allen set three NFL records: most career rushing touchdowns, most game played by a running back and most pass receptions by a running back.

1997: The club engineered several dramatic finishes, the first of which came on September 8th at Oakland when Quarterback Elvis Grbac collaborated with WR Andre Rison on an improbable 32-yard Touchdown pass with seconds remaining to provide the Chiefs with a 28-27 win over the Raiders. After posting a 6-2 record during the season’s first half, Kansas City’s good fortune finally appeared to run out on November 3rd against the Steelers, when Grbac suffered a broken clavicle. However, back-up Quarterback Rich Gannon would com on to preserve a win in that contest and lead the team to a 5-1 mark in their next six outings. However, the most memorable moment of the season came when Kicker Pete Stoyanovich provided one of the year’s most memorable moments, connecting on a line-drive 54-yard Field Goal to give Kansas City a 24-22 win over Denver on November 16th. The win was a key for the 13-3 Chiefs as it gave AFC West title over the Broncos. The Chiefs season would end on an up note as Grbac returned to the starting line-up for the regular season finale against the New Orleans Saints leading the Chiefs to a perfect 8-0 record at Arrowhead Stadium. In the Divisional Playoffs the Chiefs would be forced to play the Broncos again. Despite holding an edge in total yardage, the Chiefs could not convert on several key scoring opportunities, and would fall 14-10 to the eventual Super Bowl Champion Broncos.

1998: The Chiefs once again get off to a fast start winning four of their first five games. However, a six game losing streak would doom the Chiefs to their first losing record in ten years, as the Chiefs suffered through 7-9 season. Following the season Head Coach Marty Schottenheimer would resign leaving long time assistant Gunther Cunningham behind to take over the coaching reigns.

1999: Despite playing inconstant football the Chiefs entered the final game of the season with a 9-6 record only needing a win over the Oakland Raiders at Arrowhead to qualify for the playoffs. The Chiefs would hold a late 38-35 lead before the Raiders tied it, and won in Overtime with a pair or Joe Nedney Field Goals. The Chiefs season would end in heartbreak at 9-7, but the upcoming off-season would be unbearable. Shortly after the season ended Linebacker Derrick Thomas was injured on an icy Kansas City Highway. Thomas who was not wearing his seatbelt was paralyzed form the waist down. However, the news would go from bad to worst a month later when the injury resulted in a blood clot that would kill the star Linebacker.

2000: The heavyhearted Chiefs would struggle all season struggling to finish 7-9. Following the season Coach Gunther Cunningham was dismissed, and Quarterback Elvis Grbac was allowed to walk away as the Chiefs set up to rebuild under new Head Coach Dick Vermeil.

2001: Under new coach Dick Vermeil, the Chiefs went through a year of transition, and sat at 3-9 through their first 12 games. The Chiefs would win their next three games before finishing with a 6-10 record. However the Chiefs found a star in RB Priest Holmes who captured the NFL’s rushing title.

2002: Priest Holmes continued to establish himself as one of the top Running Backs in the NFL scoring a league high 24 Touchdowns while 2,287 all-purpose yards on offense, on the way to winning the NFL offensive player of the year despite missing the last 2 games to a hip injury. Balancing Holmes would be Quarterback Trent Green who had a solid season with 3690 passing yards and a 2-1 Touchdown to interception ratio. However the Chiefs defense would struggle allowing 431 points on the season as the Chiefs posted a mediocre 8-8 record.

2003: The Chiefs came flying out of the gates winning their first four games easily as they entered an early season showdown with the Denver Broncos who were also 4-0 at Arrowhead Stadium. The game would be decided by Dante Hall who had his fourth straight game with a kick return Touchdown setting a new NFL record as the Chiefs improved to 5-0 with a 24-23 win. Trailing the Green Bay Packers on the road 31-14 the following week the Chiefs rallied with 20 points in the 4th Quarter as Trent Green passed for 400 yards. In overtime Green would find Eddie Kennison on a 51-yard game winning Touchdown pass as the Chiefs improved to 6-0 with a dramatic 40-34 win. The Chiefs continued to roll winning their next three games before finally losing to the Cincinnati Bengals 24-19 in Week 11. Following their loss to the Bengals the Chiefs began to look shaky although they continued to win beating the lowly San Diego Charges and Oakland Raiders in their next 2 games to lock up the AFC West Title. However down the stretch the Chiefs would falter splitting their final 4 games to finish with a 13-3 record which would lose them home field advantage through out the playoffs. Despite the late season struggle Priest Holmes was able to set a new single season record with 28 Touchdowns. After a first round bye the Chiefs faced the Indianapolis Colts in the divisional round of the playoffs. The Chiefs found themselves behind the eight ball early as the Colts scored 14 first quarter points on two long Touchdown drives. However the Chiefs would answer back scoring ten points on their first two drives. However, the Colts would answer back with another Touchdown on their third possession of the first half while the Chiefs third possession resulted in a missed Morten Andersen Field Goal. With the Colts leading 21-10 the Chiefs needed a score to start the second half, but when Priest Holmes’ fumble led to a Colts Field Goal and a 14 point deficit. The Chiefs would answer back, only to have the Colts score again. Needing a jump start Dante Hall delivered one with a 92-yard kick return for a Touchdown to cut the deficit to seven points. However the Colts would answer back with another Touchdown. The Chiefs needing to score quickly were able to strike back, but it took seven minutes and they would never see the ball again as the Colts advanced to the AFC Championship with a 38-31 win, as the Colts never punted in the game.

2004: There would be no repeat of the Chiefs 9-0 start as they stumbled out of the gate dropping their first three games as the Chiefs defense continued to be their Achilles’ Heel. After splitting their next two games the Chiefs erupted for 101 points in the next two games beating the Atlanta Flacons and Indianapolis Colts at Arrowhead Stadium. However, it would be an abrasion as the Chiefs lost their next four games falling to 3-8 and out of the playoff picture. With the playoffs out of reach the Chiefs shut down Priest Holmes who was hampered all season with an ailing knee. With Holmes sitting out the Chiefs turned to backup Larry Johnson who would score 11 Touchdowns while the Chiefs climbed back towards respectability with four straight wins. However, with a chance to finish .500 the Chiefs would lose to the division champion San Diego Chargers in their final game as they finished in third place with a 7-9 record.

2005: As rumors circulated all season that Dick Vermiel would retire following the season the Chiefs began the season in style by crushing the New York Jets 27-7. Following a Week 2 win on the road against the Oakland Raiders, the Chiefs faced an early test and failed losing to the Denver Broncos 30-10 as the Broncos took control of the AFC West for the rest of the season. A week later the Chiefs got off to a fast start against the Philadelphia Eagles at Arrowhead, leading 17-0. Then after Trent Green had a pass intercepted and returned for Touchdown, the Chiefs quickly recovered as Dante Hall returned the ensuing kickoff 96 yards to give the Chiefs a 24-6 lead. The Eagles would cut the lead to 24-13 at halftime, then battled back to tie in the 3rd Quarter. The Eagles would continue to befuddle the Chiefs taking a 27-24 lead, then on the ensuing kickoff Hall was in the middle of another key play this time fumbling on the 25 yard line setting the Eagles up for a short Touchdown drive, as the Chiefs lost a heartbreaker 37-31. Following the bye week the Chiefs bounced back with two straight wins, before losing another key Western Division road game to the San Diego Chargers. Making matters worse the Chiefs lost Priest Holmes for the season to a spinal injury that put his career in doubt. Out of the loss of Holmes came the blossoming of a new star as Larry Johnson now the focus of the Chiefs offense was suddenly untouchable rushing for 100 plus yards in each of the final nine games of the season including two performances over 200 yards as he tallied nearly 2,000 all purpose yards with 21 Touchdowns. Following a bad loss to the Buffalo Bills on the road the Chiefs would win three straight including their rematch with the Broncos at Arrowhead to sit at 8-4. However, December road trips into the NFC East ended up being the Chiefs undoing as they lost a heartbreaker to the Cowboys, who won 31-28 with a Drew Bledsoe to Dan Campbell one yard Touchdwon pass with 22 seconds remaining. A week later the Chiefs could not stop Tiki Barber who outshined a solid 167-yard game from Larry Johnson with 220 yards and two Touchdowns in a 27-17 win for the New York Giants. The Chiefs would close the season with back to back wins, but their 10-6 record would not be good enough for the playoffs in the bruising AFC, as Dick Vermiel would retire with great fanfare around the league. Eventually the Chiefs would work out a deal with the Jets to get Coach Herm Edwards who was Vermiel’s chosen successor.

2006: With new Coach Herm Edwards, the Chiefs started the season with bad news, as Priest Holmes career remained in jeopardy following neck surgery that caused him to miss the entire season. However, with Larry Johnson, the Chiefs had a more then antiquate replacement. In Week 1 the Chiefs got more bad injury news as Trent Green suffered a serious concussion in a 23-10 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. With back up Damon Huard, the Chiefs would fall to 0-2 losing a heartbreaker to the Denver Broncos on the road in overtime 9-6. Huard and the Chiefs played much better the following week, winning their first game of the year at Arrowhead 41-0 over the San Francisco 49ers. Meanwhile Larry Johnson in place of Holmes continued to establish himself as one of the top Running Backs in the league with 1789 yards rushing with 19 touchdowns. Huard also played well in Green’s absence posting a solid 98.0 Quarterback Raiting 11 touchdowns against one interception, as the Chiefs held 5-4 record when Trent Green returned to lead the Chiefs to a 17-13 comeback win over the Oakland Raiders. A few days later the Chiefs hosted the Broncos in a primetime Thanksgiving Special, as Larry Johnson rushed for 157 yards, as Lawrence Tynes kicked four field goals in a 19-10 win, which catapulted the Chiefs into the playoff picture. However, that picture nearly faded as the Chiefs dropped their next three games, with Trent Green struggling to regain his form. On December 13th the Chiefs lost something more, when their patriarch Lamar Hunt passed away at the age of 74 after a long battle with prostate cancer. Hunt, who helped found the AFL, owned the Chiefs since 1960, when they began play as the Dallas Texans, eventually moving to Kansas City in 1963. For his contribution the AFC Championship Trophy was named after him. With their playoff hopes fading the Chiefs beat up on the lowly Raiders to end their losing streak, and enter the final week of the season with a chance to still make the playoffs. Needing a win and a Broncos loss to the 49ers to get in the Chiefs did their part, as Larry Johnson scored three touchdowns in a 35-30 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars. They then had to sit a watch the 49ers battle the Broncos in Denver. At first things did not start off well as the Broncos jumped out to a 13-0 lead. However, the 49ers would battle back and win the game in overtime 23-20, sending the 9-7 Chiefs into the playoffs. In the Wild Card round the Chiefs started with a showdown against the Indianapolis Colts, giving Coach Herm Edward a chance to face his mentor Tony Dungy. For most of the first half the Chiefs shut down the Colts high powered offense intercepting Peyton Manning three times. With a chance to take the lead the Chiefs had the ball on the Colts 9 following an interception by Jarrad Page. However, the Chiefs offense faltered, as Lawrence Tynes missed a 23-yard Field Goal attempt. The Colts given the reprieve would go on to win the game 23-8, holding Larry Johnson to just 32 rushing yards. Following the season the Chiefs would trade Trent Green, focusing on the future at Quarterback with Brodie Croyle, with Damon Huard being named the new starter.

2007: With the departure of Trent Green, the Chiefs became a team in transition as they got off to a poor start dropping their first two games to the Houston Texans and Chicago Bears, while scoring a total of 13 points. In Week 3 the Chiefs would get their first win on the road as they scored 13 unanswered points after falling behind the Minnesota Vikings 10-0. A week later in San Diego the Chiefs rallied again finishing the game with 24 unanswered points in the second half as the Chiefs stunned the Chargers 30-16. After a loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars the Chiefs beat the Cincinnati Bengals and Oakland Raiders to climb above .500. However a week later Running Back Larry Johnson suffered a season ending foot injury in a 33-22 loss to the Green Bay Packers. The injury to Johnson came just as Priest Holmes was ready to play after missing nearly two years with a neck injury. However, the return would be short-lived as Holmes was forced to retire after reinjuring his neck. At the same time the Chiefs began to work on the future as Brodie Croyle took over at Quarterback from Damon Huard. Croyle did not play well as the Chiefs offense struggled badly. The Chiefs would not win another game, as they dropped their final nine games to finish the season with a disappointing 4-12 record. The only bright spot during the season’s final two months was Tony Gonzalez who broke Shannon Sharpe’s career record for touchdowns by a Tight End at 63.

2008: The Chiefs hit rock bottom as they started the season with three straight losses. After beating the Denver Broncos in Week 4, the Chiefs struggles continued as they lost their next seven games, along the way legendary Tight End Tony Gonzalez expressed a desire to be traded as the Chiefs were clearly in a rebuild mode with second year Quarterback Tyler Thigpen seeking a bulk of the action. After ending their losing streak with a road win over the Oakland Raiders, the Chiefs limped home losing their final four games to finish with a franchise worst record of 2-14. Following the season the Chiefs would make wholesale changes as Scott Pioli replaced longtime Chiefs President Carl Peterson, who resigned after 20 seasons in the Chiefs front office. The Chiefs would also fire Coach Herm Edwards, while agreeing to deal away Tony Gonzalez to the Atlanta Falcons for a second round draft pick.

2009: The Chiefs were starting over when the season began with new Coach Todd Haley, and QB Matt Cassel who was acquired from the New England Patriots along with Mike Vrable for a second round draft selection in the 2009 NFL Draft. Unfortunately when the season began Cassel was on the shelf with a knee injury, as Brodie Croyle got the start as the Chiefs lost their season opener on the road to the Baltimore Ravens 38-24. Cassel returned a week later for the home opener as the Chiefs were beaten by the Oakland Raiders 13-10. The Chiefs would eventually fall to 0-5, before earning their first win against the Washington Redskins 14-6 on the road. However, the troubles continued for the Chiefs as they lost to the San Diego Chargers 37-7. Following the game RB Larry Johnson criticized Coach Todd Haley and made anti gay slurs on Twitter. The Chiefs would suspend Johnson two weeks and eventually release him. Following the bye week the Chiefs continued to struggle, losing to the Jacksonville Jaguars 24-21 to fall to 1-7. Highlighted by a 44 yard Touchdown run from Jamaal Charles, the Chiefs wearing Dallas Texans throwbacks for the AFL’s 50th Anniversary beat the Oakland Raiders on the road 16-10. A week later at Arrowhead Stadium, the Chiefs would get off to a fast start as Jamaal Charles returned the opening kickoff 97 yards for a Touchdown against the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Steelers would recover and would hold a 17-7 lead at halftime. The Chiefs would respond with ten points in the 3rd Quarter to tie the game, after both teams traded touchdowns in the 4th Quarter the game went to overtime, where the Chiefs won 27-24 on a 22 yard Field Goal by Ryan Succop. After two straight wins, the Chiefs suffered back-to-back humiliating losses to the San Diego Chargers and Denver Broncos by a combined score of 87-27. The losses would send the Chiefs on a five game losing streak heading into the last week of the season. However, they would end the season on a positive note as they beat the Denver Broncos 44-24, earning their first win at Invesco Field in nine tries, as the posted a record of 4-12.

2010: The Chiefs began the season with a Monday Night game against the San Diego Chargers at the newly renovated Arrowhead Stadium. The rain would not dampen the spirits as the Chiefs stun the Chargers 21-14, with Dexter McCluster’s 94 yard punt return for a Touchdown near the end of the first half proving to be the key play. Despite struggling to find the endzone in Week 2 the Chiefs would start 2-0 with a 16-14 win over the Cleveland Browns, as Ryan Succop two second half field goals were the only scores after halftime. Back home for Week 3, the Chiefs offense came alive as Matt Cassel passed for 250 yards with three touchdowns as the Chiefs speared the San Francisco 49ers 31-10. Following a bye week, the Chiefs would suffer a setback with back-to-back road losses to the Indianapolis Colts and Houston Texans. Returning home the Chiefs would get back on track as they slammed the Jacksonville Jaguars 42-20. However, a week later the Chiefs would bring new meaning to winning ugly as they needed all 15 minutes of overtime to edge the Buffalo Bills with Ryan Succop kicking a 35 yard Field Goal for a 13-10 win, as the Chiefs nearly wasted a 177 yard effort from Jamal Charles. A week later they would not be as fortunate as they are beaten by the Oakland Raiders 23-20 in overtime that loss would be followed by a 49-29 loss to the Denver Broncos, continuing the Chiefs woes at Mile High. Returning to Arrowhead, the Chiefs would rebound with a 31-13 win over the Arizona Cardinals as Matt Cassel hooked up with Dwayne Bowe on two Touchdown passes. In Seattle a week later, Bowe would be the star again with 170 receiving yards and three touchdowns as the Chiefs beat the Seahawks 42-24. A week later the Chiefs would gain revenge on the Broncos with a 10-6 win at Arrowhead. With a chance to all but wrap up the AFC West Championship the Chiefs were blanked by the Chargers 31-0 on the road as they played without QB Matt Cassel who needed an emergency appendectomy. Cassel would return a week later and lead the Chiefs to a 27-13 win over the St. Louis Rams in a Show Me State showdown. A week later the Chiefs would clinch a division title by beating the Tennessee Titans 34-14, with Cassel passing for 314 yards with three touchdowns. The Chiefs would end the season with a 31-10 loss to the Raiders at home, as they rested several key players to prepare for the playoffs. In the Wild Card round the Chiefs would host the Baltimore Ravens. Things looked good early for the Chiefs as they held a 7-3 lead at the end of the 1st Quarter on a 41 yard Jamaal Charles Touchdown run. However, just before the half the Ravens would take the lead on a Ray Rice Touchdown run. In the second half it was all Ravens as the Chiefs turned the ball over five times, losing 30-7 to put a disappointing finish to what was a surprisingly good season.

2011: After winning the AFC West, the Chiefs hoped to get right back in the playoffs after suffering a Wild Card loss. However, right from the start of the season, the Chiefs found themselves in a hole as they lost Safety Eric Berry to a knee injury in the season opener against the Buffalo Bills. Week 1 would be a complete disaster for the Chiefs as they were crushed 41-7 by the Bills at Arrowhead Stadium. A week later there would be more bad news a RB Jamaal Charles suffered a season ending knee injury as the Chiefs suffered a 48-3 loss at the hands of the Detroit Lions. Facing the San Diego Chargers, the Chiefs would finally play a competitive football games, but the result was the same as they suffered a 20-17 loss on the road. At 0-3 there was trouble in Kansas City as the Chiefs had a rash of injuries to key players, while the team began feuding with its Coach Todd Haley. In Week 4 the Chiefs would finally earn a win, as Ryan Succop kicked five Field Goals, with Matt Cassel completing a 52 yard touchdown pass to Dwayne Bowe as the Chiefs beat the Minnesota Vikings 22-17 in a battle of winless teams at Arrowhead Stadium. A week later, the Chiefs would win again, as Matt Cassel had a strong game passing for 257 yards, with four touchdowns as the Chiefs beat the Indianapolis Colts on the road 28-24. Following the bye week, the Chiefs would get back to .500, with a tremendous defensive effort as they forced six turnovers, with Kendrick Lewis and Brandon Flowers returning interceptions for touchdowns in a 28-0 whitewash of the Oakland Raiders at the black hole. On Monday Night Football a week later the Chiefs would continue the resurgence as they beat the Chargers in overtime 23-20 at Arrowhead, as Ryan Succop had three field goals including the game winner from 30 yards. However, just as they appeared to be back on track things unraveled for the Chiefs as they suffered an inexplicable 31-3 loss to the winless Dolphins at home. A week later there was more frustration in Kansas City as the Chiefs lost to the Denver Broncos 17-10, with Tim Tebow completing a 56 yard TD pass to Eric Decker. Making matter worse QB Matt Cassel broke his hand and would not play again during the season. With Tyler Palko starting the Chiefs would fall to 4-6 with an ugly 31-3 loss to the New England Patriots. Palko would get the start again the following week at home, and continued to struggle in a 13-9 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, spoiling a valiant effort from the Chiefs defense to keep the in the game to the bitter end, as Succop provided all the Chiefs scoring with three Field Goals over 40 yards. In a battle of back up quarterbacks at Soldier Field, Tyler Palko would finally find the endzone hitting Dexter McCluster with a Hail Mary at the end of the first half. The play would be the difference in a game where there was nearly no offense to be found as the Chiefs won 10-7. However, a week later the Chiefs would again be blow out, losing to the New York Jets 37-10 at the Meadowlands. Following the game, Coach Todd Haley would be fired as his troubles with the players bled over into trouble with Chiefs management. He would be replaced with popular Defensive Coordinator Romeo Crennel. At the same time, Tyler Palko was mercifully benched in favor of Kyle Orton who was claimed off waivers from the Broncos a few weeks earlier.
Facing the 13-0 Green Bay Packers it looked like a lost cause for the Chiefs as they began the Romeo era. However, the Chiefs defense put forth an inspired effort shutting down the high powered Packers offense. Meanwhile they got four Field Goals from Ryan Succop and pulled off the biggest upset of the season beating the Packers 19-14. The win over the Packers was a boost for the Chiefs as it assured Romeo Crennel would remain as coach beyond 2011, as they split their final two games against the Raiders and Broncos, while playing strong defense in each game as the finished the season with a record of 7-9.

2012: After a season full of injuries and frustration, there was renewed hope in Kansas City as the Chiefs began their first full season with Romeo Crennel at the helm. In the season opener, Tony Gonzalez returned to Arrowhead with the Atlanta Falcons and scored 3rd Quarter Touchdowns as the Chiefs suffered a 40-24 loss. Things would not get better the following week as the Chiefs were down 35-3, before two Dwayne Bowe scored two touchdowns in the 4th Quarter as they lost on the road to the Buffalo Bills 35-17. Against the New Orleans Saints at the Superdome, the Chiefs looked to be staring a 0-3 start in the eyes as they trailed 24-6 late in the 3rd Quarter. However, the Chiefs would get back in the game with a 91 yard Touchdown run from Jamaal Charles. In the 4th Quarter the Chiefs would get three Field Goals from Ryan Succop, while Justin Houston sacked Drew Brees in the endzone for a safety to toe the game 24-24. In overtime, Succop would nail a 31 yard Field Goal to give the Chiefs a dramatic 27-24 come from behind win. Returning home the Chiefs would not be able to get any momentum as they trailed the San Diego Chargers 17-0 after the 1st Quarter. The Chargers would go on to win the game easily 37-20. The losses only would mount from there as an uninspired 9-6 loss to the Baltimore Ravens would be their only close game over the next five games as the Chiefs found themselves at 1-7 at the season’s midpoint. The Chiefs had failed to even lead at any point during their first eight games. In Week 10 on the road against the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Chiefs scored first, but the Steelers scored last winning the game 16-13 in overtime, as Matt Cassel was picked off by Lamar Woodley. Following an ugly 28-6 loss at home to the Cincinnati Bengals, the Chiefs put up another good effort as they trailed by just one point at halftime against the Denver Broncos at home. However, they would end up falling to 1-10 with a 17-9 loss. Things would go from bad to worse six days later as Linebacker Jovan Belcher murdered his girlfriend at their home and then drove to the team’s practice field where he shot himself in the head in front of general manager Scott Pioli and Romeo Crennel. With a game just 24 hours later, the Chiefs managed to fight through the pain and won their second game of the year by beating the Carolina Panthers 27-21, as Brady Quinn had a solid game passing for 201 yards with two touchdowns. However, that would be the Chiefs last win of the season, as they dropped their final four games and finished the season with a franchise worst record of 2-14. The lone bright spot for the lost season was the solid year of RB Jamal Charles who ran for 1,509 yards. Following the season the Chiefs would make wholesale changes as John Dorsey replaced Pioli as General Manager, while former Philadelphia Eagles Coach Andy Reid replaced Crennel. The Chiefs would also acquire Quarterback Alex Smith from the San Francisco 49ers as they drafted tackle Eric Fisher from Central Michigan with the number one pick.

2013: Coming off a 2-14 season, the Chiefs had a new beginning with new Coach Andy Reid and new Quarterback Alex Smith, who was determined to be expendable by the San Francisco 49ers with the play of Colin Kaepernick. Starting the season on the road against the Jacksonville Jaguars, the Chiefs got off to a rough start as Punter Dustin Colquitt had a punt blocked for a safety after the first series of the game. However, it would be the only blemish in an otherwise perfect game that the Chiefs won 28-2. The Chiefs defense limited the Jaguars to 228 yards total offense, forcing two turnovers, while Alex Smith passed for 173 yards with two touchdowns. Hosting the Dallas Cowboys in their home opener, the Chiefs trailed in the third quarter 13-7, when Alex Smith and Dwayne Bowe connected on a 12 yard score to take the lead. The Chiefs would add a 40 yard Field Goal from Ryan Succop in the fourth quarter as they held on to a 17-16 victory, with their defense again forcing two turnovers. Four nights later, the Chiefs would face make an appearance on Thursday Night Football as Andy Reid returned to face his old team the Philadelphia Eagles. The Chiefs would get another big defensive effort, forcing five turnovers, including a first quarter pick six by Eric Berry. Returning home, the Chiefs completed a perfect September by crushing the New York Giants 31-7, as Dexter McCluster blew open the game with an 89 yard punt return. The Chiefs would get off to a fast start against the Tennessee Titans, building a 13-0 lead thanks to a fumble recovery by Marcus Cooper in the endzone. However, the Titants would rally to take a 17-13 lead in the early part of the 4th Quarter. The Chiefs who began the game with 13 unanswered points, would end it 1ith 13 unanswered to reach 5-0 for the first time in a decade winning 26-17 as Jamaal Charles scored on a TD run, and Ryan Succuop had his second four game of the season. Returning home, the Chiefs would continue their excellent start by beating the Oakland Raiders 24-7, as they ended a six game losing streak at Arrowhead Stadium, as their AFC West rivals. Despite struggling in their next game, the Chiefs became the last unbeaten team in the NFL at 7-0 with a 17-16 win over the Houston Texans. The Chiefs would eventually make it to 9-0 with wins over the Cleveland Browns and Buffalo Bills. After a bye week, the Chiefs great start would be put to the test in a Sunday Night showdown with the Denver Broncos. The Broncos who were scoring at a record pace, would not be able to pull away as the Chiefs held them under 30 points, but suffered their first loss just the same 27-17 A week later the Chiefs found themselves in a shootout with the San Diego Chargers at Arrowhead. Alex Smith had a solid game with 294 yard passing and three touchdowns, while Jamaal Charles rushed for 115 yards with two touchdowns. However, the Chargers would win the game 41-38 as Phillip Rivers found Seyi Ajirotutu in the endzone with 24 seconds left. The Chiefs would ended up with a third straight loss as they faced the Broncos for the second time in three weeks. Things looked good, for the Chiefs early, as they built a 21-7 lead highlighted by an electrifying 108 yard kickoff return from Knile Davis, but they had no answers for Peyton Manning and Erik Decker who hooked up for four touchdowns to lead Denver to a 35-28 win. The big play would return for the Chiefs a week later as they crushed the Washington Redskins 45-10 at FedEx Field. The Chiefs dominated the game from the start, building a 31-0 lead, highlighted by a Dexter McCluster 74 yard punt return in the second quarter. After the Redskins got on the board, the Chiefs quickly answered with Quintin Demps 95 yard kickoff return. A week later the Chiefs would enjoy another blow out win over the Raiders in Oakland 56-31. Alex Smith passed for 287 yards, with five touchdowns, four of which were caught by Jamaal Charles who had 215 All-Purpose Yards with five touchdowns, as the Chiefs defense forced seven turnovers. The Chiefs would sputter in their return to Arrowhead Stadium, as they lost to the Indianapolis Colts 23-7. Locked into the fifth seed in the playoffs, the Chiefs rested their starters as they ended the regular season against the Chargers in San Diego. The Chiefs reserves played well leading most of the game. However, the Chargers needing a win to make the playoffs rallied and tied the game 24-24 on a chip shot Field Goal late in the 4th Quarter. The Chiefs would have a chance to win the game at the end of regulation, but Ryan Succuop’s 41 yard Field Goal attempt sailed wide right. In overtime, the Chargers would score on the first possession, and win the game 27-24 as Chase Daniel was unable to get the Chiefs into Field Goal range with the game ending on an illegal forward pass.

2013 Playoffs: After posting an 11-5 record, the Chiefs would face the Indianapolis Colts in the Wild Card round at Lucas Oil Stadium. The Chiefs dominated the first half, building a 31-10 lead, as Alex Smith was on his way to passing for 378 yards with four touchdowns, highlighted by a 79 yard bomb to Donnie Avery to start the second quarter. The Chiefs would continue to build the lead to 38-10 with a Husain Abdullah interception of Andrew Luck to begin the second half, which set up a ten yard TD pass to Knile Davis. However an incredible string of injuries that saw the Chiefs lose running backs Jamaal Charles and Knile Davis, outside linebacker Justin Houston, cornerback Brandon Flowers and wide receiver Donnie Avery turned the game that seemed to be a laugher into a nail biter as Luck began to lead the Colts back with three scores in the 2nd Quarter. Amdrew Luck was in the right place at the right time to scoop up a fumble for a TD run to cut the Chiefs lead to 41-38 at the start of the fourth quarter. With the momentum turned around the Chiefs would get just a 43 yard Field Goal following after Luck tossed his third pick of the game. The Colts would complete the comeback as Andrew Luck connected with T.Y. Hilton on a 64 yard score with 4:21 left. Down 45-44, the Chiefs got the ball down to the Colts 39, but Alex Smith was flagged for grounding stalling the drive. Facing 4th and 11 with time slipping away, Smith found Dwayne Bowe on the sideline, but he would come up one yard short of a first down that would have continued the drive. The Colts would run out the clock, completing the second biggest playoff comeback in NFL history.

2014: Coming off a surprise trip to the playoffs, the Kansas City Chiefs looked to carry the momentum forward as they opened the season at home against the Tennessee Titans. Despite a high energy crowd all decked in red at Arrowhead Stadium, the Chiefs came out flat and suffered a 26-10 loss. Down 21-10 to the Denver Broncos at the half in Week 2 the Chiefs would begin to playing better in the second half but their comeback efforts fell just short as a potential game tying drive was turned away at the goal line, losing 24-17. The Chiefs would get their first win in Week 3 on the road against the Miami Dolphins 34-15, as Knile Davis playing for an injured Jamaal Charles rushed for 132 yards with a touchdown, while Alex Smith had three touchdown passes. Returning home for Monday Night Football, the Chiefs had one of their most impressive wins in years, crushing the New England Patriots 41-14, as Jamaal Charles returned and had three touchdowns, while their defense intercepted Tom Brady twice, highlighted by Hussain Abdullah’s 39 yard interception return. However, they would be unable to build off that win as they suffered a 22-17 loss to the San Francisco 49ers at Levi’s Stadium and went into the bye week with a record of 2-3. Returning from the bye week, the Chiefs would win a back and forth thriller on the road against the San Diego Chargers 23-20 as Cairo Santos 48 yard Field Goal with 21 seconds left was the difference. Returning home, the Chiefs slammed the St. Louis Rams 34-7, scoring the last 34 points after the Rams took a 7-0 lead in the first quarter. The highlight of the game was a 99 yard kickoff return from Knile Davis to open the second half. The Chiefs would get a third straight win against the New York Jets, 24-10. After struggling all afternoon in Buffalo, the Chiefs would score twice in the fourth quarter to beat the Bills 17-3 and improved to 6-3. The winning score was an eight yard bootleg from Alex Smith with 8:59 left in regulation. The Chiefs would get a fifth straight win when they returned home to face the Seattle Seahawks. In their 24-20 win over the defending champions, it was Jamaal Charles leading the way with 159 yards on the ground and two touchdowns. Riding high at 7-3 the Chiefs would suffer a major letdown four days later, as they were upset by the winless Oakland Raiders 24-20. Heading into the game, the Raiders had 16 straight losses and had not won for a calendar year. Making matters worse, Safety Eric Berry was hospitalized for chest pains. A chest X-Ray would discover a mass in his chest that turned out to be lymphoma. Despite the diagnosis the prognosis for recover was good for Berry as the team wore T-Shirts with the slogan “Be Bold, Be Strong, Be Berry” with his name and jersey number 29 on the back. Following their deflating loss in Oakland, the Chiefs would suffer losses to the Broncos on Sunday Night and Arizona Cardinals. Returning home the Chiefs took revenge on the Raiders, winning 31-13 to keep their fading playoff hopes alive. However, those hopes would all but vanish with a 20-12 loss at Heinz Field against the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Chiefs went into the final week needing lots of help to return to the playoffs, but the help never appeared as the Baltimore Ravens beat the Cleveland Browns to earn the final spot in the postseason. The Chiefs however, did their part beat the Chargers at Arrowhead Stadium 19-7. The win eliminated the Chargers from the postseason and marked the first time since 2003 that the Chiefs swept their division rivals from Southern California. Despite making the playoffs, the Chiefs 9-7 record was quite respectable. In a statistical anomaly Alex Smith had 18 touchdown passes none of which were caught by a Wide Receiver as all were caught by eight Chiefs Tight Ends of Running Backs.

2015: After narrowly missing the playoffs, the Kansas City Chiefs looking to rebound started the season successfully with a 27-20 win of the Houston Texans. Alex Smith had a solid game in Houston, passing for 243 yards, with three touchdowns. The Chiefs would host the Denver Broncos in their home opener on Thursday Night Football, four days later. The Chiefs appeared to be in control early, taking a 14-0 lead on pick six by Marcus Peters, but the Broncos answered with scores on their next two possessions. The Chiefs would take the lead three times, only to have Denver tie the game, the last time coming with 36 seconds left. Tied 24-24, the Chiefs would be stunned just nine seconds later as Bradley Roby returned a Jamaal Charles fumble 21 yards to win the game 31-24. The stunning loss to Denver, seemed to send the Chiefs as they lost their next two games on the road to the Green Bay Packers and Cincinnati Bengals. Returning home the Chiefs suffered a bid body blow when Jamaal Charles their leading rusher suffered a torn ACL and was lost for the season. Despite the injury, the Chiefs appeared to be heading for a win, leading 17-3 at the half. However, without Charles, the Chiefs offense stalled, which kept Chicago in the game. Still leading 17-6, the Chiefs allowed two touchdowns in the final three minutes with Matt Forte putting the Bears in front 18-17 with a seven yard run with 18 seconds left. Facing desperation Cairo Santos would be unsuccessful on a 66-yard Field Goal attempt, dropping the Chiefs to 1-4. The Chiefs struggles continued in Week 6 as they lost to the Minnesota Vikings 16-10, watching a fourth quarter rally fall just short after being shutout for the first three quarters. After five straight losses the Chiefs season appeared to be over before it even began as just one team in the Super Bowl era made the playoffs after such a poor start. Hosting the Pittsburgh Steelers who were playing without Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, the Chiefs with three Field Goals by Cairo Santos held a 9-3 lead at the half. That would remain the score until late in the third quarter, when Charcandrick West who rushed for 122 yards scored from one yard out. The Steelers would claw back to within a Field Goal, but with Chris Conley hauling in a six yard pass from Alex Smith the Chiefs would end their five game losing streak with a 23-13 win. Charcandrick West led the way again the following week, rushing for 97 yards with a touchdown on 20 carries as the Chiefs rolled over the Detroit Lions in a game played at London’s Wembley Stadium. The Chiefs defense also played a key role win the win, sacking Matthew Stafford six times. Following a bye week, the Chiefs continued their turnaround with a 29-13 win over the Broncos at Mile High. Charcandrick West continued to impress, with 167 all-purpose yards, including an 80-yard pass and catch that helped them build a 29-0 lead early in the fourth quarter, also helping to lead the way were Cairo Santos who had five Field Goals, while the Chiefs defense intercepted Peyton Manning four times. The Chiefs would reach .500 with a 33-3 road win over the San Diego Chargers. Early on it was clear the day belonged to Kansas City, as 346 pound tackle Dontari Poe playing offense leapt over goalline and at became the heaviest player in NFL history to rush for a touchdown. Charcandrick West out with a hamstring injury, the Chiefs turned to Spencer Ware who was signed off the Seattle Seahawks practice squad to carry the load in the running attack. Ware would rush for 114 yards with one score, as Alex Smith passed for 255 yards and two scores to help the Chiefs improve to 6-5 with a 30-22 win over the Buffalo Bills at Arrowhead Stadium. Against the Oakland Raiders, Jeremy Maclin had two fourth quarter touchdown receptions as the Chiefs rallied for a 34-20 win on the road. The Chiefs offense stalled the following week, but thanks to a big defensive stand they won a seventh straight game by beating the Chargers 10-3 at a rain soaked Arrowhead Stadium. With two defensive scores the Chiefs clinched a winning record by beating the Baltimore Ravens 34-14. The Chiefs would clinch a playoff spot the following week by beating the Cleveland Browns 17-13. The Chiefs would finish the regular season with 23-17 win over the Raiders, with ten straight wins the Chiefs finished with a record of 11-5. Helping to guide the Chiefs turnaround was their strong defense, with Marcus Peters being named Defensive Rookie of the Year, with a league best eight interceptions. Meanwhile, Eric Berry who was diagnosed with lymphoma returned cancer free, and regained his All-Pros status, winning Comeback Player of the Year.

2015 Playoffs: After becoming the first team in 45 years to reach the playoffs after a 1-5 start, the Kansas City Chiefs returned to NRG Stadium, where their season began to face the Houston Texans. The game began with a bang for the Chiefs as Knile Davis returned the opening kickoff 106 yards for a touchdown. From there, the Chiefs defense took over forcing five turnovers. Meanwhile Cairo Santos hit a pair of 49-yard Field Goals to build a 13-0 lead at the half. The Chiefs would get touchdowns from Chris Conley and Spencer Ware in the second half and cruised the rest of the way, winning 30-0. The win was franchise record 11th straight for the Chiefs. It was also the first the playoff win for the Chiefs since 1993. The Divisional Playoff Round would be much harder as they traveled to Foxboro to face the New England Patriots. With Tom Brady passing for 302 yards with two touchdown passes and a touchdown sneak, the Patriots controlled the game from the start, eventually building a 21-6 lead in the third quarter. The Chiefs would get within a touchdown late, on a Charcandrick West touchdown run, but unable to recover the on-side kick or prevent the Patriots from getting a first down, it would be as close as they could manage as their season ended with a 27-20 loss.

2016: After their strong finish, the Kansas City Chiefs looked to build momentum as they began the season with a home game against the San Diego Chargers. The Chiefs started slowly and looked to be heading for a disappointing Week 1 loss as they trailed 27-10 early in the first quarter. The Chiefs would rally back scoring 17 unanswered points to tie the game, as Alex Smith had a big game passing for 363 yards. The Chiefs would get the ball first in overtime, and went straight down the field with Smith capping a ten-play 70-yard drive with a two-yard bootleg to win the game 33-27. A week later the Chiefs would not be as fortunate as they lost a game of field goals on the road against the Houston Texans 19-12. The Chiefs offense did not do much in Week 3 as they returned home to face the New York Jets, but it would not matter as their defense ruled the day, picking off Quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick six times with Derrick Johnson returning one for a pick six 55 yards, while Demetrius Harris scooped up a fumble and returned it 27 yards for a touchdown to win the game 24-3. Playing on Sunday Night Football in Week 4, the Chiefs suffered another letdown against the Pittsburgh Steelers losing 43-14. The Chiefs would have extra time to stew on the loss, as they had an early bye week. When they came back to action the Chiefs gave one of their strongest efforts of the season beating the Oakland Raiders 26-10 for their first road win of the season. Returning home, the Chiefs held off the New Orleans Saints 27-21 in Week 7 thanks in part to a pick six from Daniel Sorensen. Against the Indianapolis Colts in Week 8 the Chiefs lost Alex Smith early in the game to concussion. However, Nick Foles came on and played well passing for 223 yards with two touchdowns as the Chiefs beat the Colts 30-16 to improve to 5-2 on the season. Foles got the start the following week and did just enough as Kansas City beat the Jacksonville Jaguars 19-14 as Cario Santo hit four field goals. Alex Smith returned in Week 10 on the road against the Carolina Panthers and struggled as the Chiefs trailed 17-3 at the start of the fourth quarter. After Santos cut the deficit to 17-6, Eric Berry put the Chiefs back in the game with a 42-yard interception return, as Alex Smith completed a two-point conversion to Travis Kelce. The Chiefs would eventually tie the game and win the game 20-17 on field goals by Cairo Santos to improve to 7-2. The Chiefs winning streak would end the following week at home as they lost to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 19-17. In a Sunday Night Showdown against the Denver Broncos after Thanksgiving the Chiefs showed their true grit. Trailing a back and forth game 24-16, late in the fourth quarter, Alex Smith led the Chiefs best drive of the season going 75 yards in 13 plays in the final three minutes. The drive was capped with a three-yard pass to Tyreek Hill, but only made the score 24-22. The Chiefs would need a successful pass to Demetrius Harris on the two-point attempt to even the score and force overtime. In overtime, the Chiefs and Broncos each managed a field goal on their first possession to set up the sudden death. After the Broncos attempted to win the game with a 62-yard Field Goal, the Chiefs rand down the rest of the clock and won the game 30-27 on a 34-yard Cairo Santos Field Goal. In Week 13, Eric Berry played a starring role in the craziest win of the year at the Georgia Dome against the Atlanta Falcons. Berry’s first big play was a 37-yard interception return that gave Kansas City a 20-13 late in the second quarter. However, his biggest play came after the Falcons scored a go ahead touchdown in the fourth quarter. With the Chiefs trailing 28-27 following a Aldrick Robinson touchdown catch, Berry picked off the two point try and returned it the other way for a defensive two point conversion that would be the game winning score in a 29-28 Chiefs win. It was the first time in NFL history a two-point conversion run back the other way decided a game. Returning home four days later, the Chiefs won big divisional battle against the Raiders 21-13, thanks in part to a big 78-yard punt return by Tyreek Hill. A week later the Chiefs would suffer a letdown, losing to the Tennessee Titans 19-17 at Arrowhead Stadium as they were blanked in the second half after building a 17-7 lead. In their final home game of the regular season the Chiefs gave a nice rebound performance beating the Broncos 33-10, adding the extra bow to the win was a touchdown pass by Dontari Poe. The Chiefs would go on to finish the season with a 37-17 win in San Diego to not only win the AFC West, but ensure a bye week in the first round of the playoffs.

2016 Playoffs: The Kansas City Chiefs Divisional Playoff Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers was moved into primetime after ice storms in Kansas City. The Chiefs found the end zone on their first possession as Albert Wilson caught a five-yard pass from Alex Smith. However, their offense as it did too often in the regular season stalled the rest of the way. The Chiefs did a good job of bending but not breaking as the Steelers held an 18-10 lead late in the fourth quarter with six Chris Boswell Field Goals. Looking for one last comeback, Spencer Ware capped a 13-play 75-yard drive with a one yard touchdown run, but the Chiefs were unable to get to two point conversion and lost the game 18-16 as the Steelers ran out the clock to advance to the AFC Championship Game.

2017: Coming off a disappointing playoff loss at home against the Steelers in a game where their opponent didn’t score a touchdown the Kansas City Chiefs started the season hungry to take the next step. With all eyes of the NFL world watching, the Chiefs opened the NFL season at Foxboro against the reigning Super Bowl champion New England Patriots and played maybe their best game of the entire season. After fumbling the first snap of his NFL career Kareem Hunt was a revelation, having the best rookie debut performance in NFL history, scoring three touchdowns on 246 total yards. Alex Smith looked prime to have his best year yet under Reid in their fifth year together throwing for 386 yards and four touchdowns – leading the Chiefs to a 42-27 victory. But the win came at a cost, as they lost Eric Berry, the heart and soul of the defense for the season to an Achilles injury. Next was the home opener against the Philadelphia Eagles, in a hard-fought battle the Chiefs pulled away late, following highlight plays from Kareem Hunt and star Tight End Travis Kelce who leapt six yards into the end zone draped in defenders on a perfectly executed shuffle pass. The Chiefs would beat both Super Bowl teams to open the season winning 27-20. This would mark the fourth consecutive year the Chiefs would defeat an eventual super bowl contending team in the regular season. AFC West play opened up at the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 3, the Chiefs always play well against their divisional opponents holding an ten-game winning streak against the division coming into the day and the same held true to make the streak 12 when Philip Rivers threw three interceptions and Kareem Hunt closed the game with a nice 69-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter, his third 50+ touchdown in as many games, leading the Chiefs to victory 24-10. The Chiefs looked to start 4-0 and remain the only unbeaten team in the NFL on Monday night at Arrowhead Stadium, against the Washington Redskins who took a fast 10-0 lead, the Chiefs attempted a field goal to end the half and tie the game 10-10 but it would be missed by Harrison Butker, who was making his NFL debut. After a big rushing game from none other than Alex Smith, including a rushing touchdown, the Chiefs had a chance at the end of the game to take the lead with another attempt from Butker – this time he nailed the 43-yard kick and the Chiefs won on the foot of their rookie – who would go on to have the most consecutive makes in franchise history (23). Final score 29-20 after a last-ditch effort from Washington results in a fumble recovered for a Chiefs touchdown. The red-hot Chiefs headed to Lone Star State to take on the rookie phenom Deshaun Watson and the ever-familiar Houston Texans, who the Chiefs had faced four times in a three-year span. The Chiefs started with a 16 to nothing lead and kept their foot on the gas pedal taking a 23-7 lead till the three-minute mark of the third quarter. But after some Watson theatrics, the Texans cut the lead to 26-20. After a punt return from Tyreek Hill, the Chiefs would pull away again to a 39-20 lead, and while Watson tried his best in the waning moments of the fourth quarter Chiefs win 42-34. The Chiefs start 5-0 after what some would consider an MVP caliber performance from Alex Smith up to this point of the season. However, next would come a tough loss against the Pittsburgh Steelers, who have the Chiefs number, on a day where the offense just couldn’t move the ball Steelers win at home 19-13. But at 5-1 Chiefs fans are happy and excited for the next game against the struggling Oakland Raiders. Raiders week always leads to an interesting rivalry game, and this Week 7 matchup was no different. A back-and-forth shootout that seemed to have it all with field goals, touchdowns, a few controversial calls, and some big pass play – none bigger than the 29-yard pass from Derek Carr to Tight End Jared Cook to land the Raiders on the one-yard line down six and with 16 seconds remaining. Then all hell broke loose: a TD completion in the end zone but Crabtree was flagged for offensive pass interference, an incomplete pass that was called for defensive pass interference; now we’re down to untimed downs, the first resulting in another incomplete pass but this time with defensive holding, and finally a touchdown pass – the Raiders would go onto win 31-30, as the Chiefs were 5-2 after the Thursday Night heartbreaker. Next up was the Denver Broncos at Arrowhead Stadium against a lack-luster Trevor Simien but still fierce defense. Kansas City showed they have some defensive skills as well forcing five takeaways with star defensive back Marcus Peters creating two and scoring on one of them as the Chiefs won 29-19. The Chiefs were sitting strong at 6-2 but went on a four-game slide that would endanger their playoff chance. Inconsistent play with rotating offensive and defensive issues resulted in losses at the Cowboys 17-28 (worth noting: Tyreek Hill had a season worthy highlight taking on an entire prevent defense for a 57-yard touchdown before the half). The slide continued after the bye as they lost to the New York Giants 12-9 in Week 11 at the Meadowlands. They would also lose to the Buffalo Bills 16-10 at home and 38-31 in a second trip to Met Life Stadium against the New York Jets the Chiefs lost 38-31 and found themselves 6-6 with six losses out of a seven-game stretch – and what was once talk of Alex Smith leading a charge for MVP in the first five weeks had suddenly changed to talks about seeing his newly drafted replacement, gunslinger Patrick Mahomes. Those hot takes were quickly distinguished when the Chiefs rattled off a four-game winning streak to end the season, defeating the Raiders 26-15 to get back on track. A week later, the Chiefs beat the surging Chargers 30-13 as Philip Rivers was picked off three times again as the Chiefs extended their winning streak to 12 games over the Chargers to all but lock up the AFC West. The Chiefs would clinch the West with a 29-13 win over the Miami Dolphins 29-13 and finished the season at the Broncos winning 27-24, to finish the season with a record of 10-6. Kareem Hunt was the unquestioned breakout star, with 1,782 total yards on offense with 11 touchdowns. At quarterback, Alex Smith was solid again passing for a career-best 4,042 yards with 26 touchdowns and five interceptions.
Written by Kyle Fisher

2017 NFL Playoffs: The Kansas City Chiefs would face the Tennessee Titans at home in the Wild Card Round. The Chiefs got out to a commanding 21-3 lead, in the first half but after a fluke play in where Marcus Mariota both threw, and caught his own deflected touchdown pass, a concussion sidelining Travis Kelce, some questionable play calling from Andy Reid, and some even more questionable calls – including a sack and forced fumble by Derrick Johnson somehow being called back due to Mariota’s “forward progress” in the middle of his drop back – the Chiefs blew their lead and had yet another disappointing home playoff loss, 22-21. After the rollercoaster of the regular season, the ride was just getting started, the Chiefs offseason was one of the most memorable to date. As rookie General Manager Brett Veach traded away Alex Smith after a career year and started the Patrick Mahomes era in Kansas City. He wasn’t done there, in what was maybe even more surprising than the Smith trade was the trade of Marcus Peters to the Los Angeles Rams, after acquiring Kendall Fuller a talented cornerback in the Smith trade. The Chiefs also cut ties with Tamba Hali and franchise leading tackler Derrick Johnson as the defense was completely overhauled.
Written by Kyle Fisher