Bills Aren't Quite Ready For Greatness, But The Chiefs Sure Are
The Buffalo Bills had an incredible season. A 13-3 regular season record, an AFC East crown and an AFC Championship appearance are nothing to be ashamed of. But Sunday's 38-24 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs proves they aren't ready for the big time -- at least not yet.
Josh Allen looked rattled early, and while he put up solid numbers (375 total yards, two touchdowns and one interception), he never seemed to get his footing. It wasn't just Allen, though. This entire team looked overwhelmed after an impressive start ended in disappointment.
The offensive line could not protect Allen. The Chiefs had four sacks and a whopping 10 quarterback hits. It was evident early that the Bills' recent offensive struggles would continue.
And their defense wasn't any better.
They didn't get the necessary pressure on Patrick Mahomes to affect him. They also seemed to have forgotten about Travis Kelce, the best tight end in the NFL. The three-time All-Pro was able to get open consistently, racking up 13 catches for 118 yards and two touchdowns.
With guys like Mahomes and Kelce, Kansas City is just a talented and cohesive team, especially on offense. They scored 38 points, posted 439 total yards of offense (mostly through the air) and converted 60 percent on third downs.
That is what a Super Bowl contender is supposed to look like. The Chiefs were able to remind everyone why they're the reigning champs, and now they'll get a chance at another year of bragging rights, this time against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Super Bowl LV.
The Bills are moving in the right direction, but the goal for that franchise should look like what Kansas City has already built.
Follow Clint Lamb on Twitter @ClintRLamb.