The Chiefs' playoff hopes could be mathematically dashed on Sunday, marking a disappointing end to their 2025 season. But here's the catch: it's not just about their own performance. A string of wins by other AFC teams could send them home early.
Imagine this: The Chiefs lose to the Chargers, and simultaneously, the Bills beat the Patriots, the Jaguars take down the Jets, and the Texans edge out the Cardinals. In this scenario, the Chiefs would sink to a 6-8 record, finishing behind a host of teams in the AFC. That leaves just one playoff spot open, and it's likely to go to the champion of the AFC North.
But it's not just this one path to elimination. Swap the Colts' game with the Texans', and the Chiefs are out again. Even if the Chiefs win all their remaining games, they'd still need a lot of help from other teams to secure a playoff spot. It's a long shot, and that shot might just be taken away from them on Sunday.
So, while the Chiefs' fate isn't sealed yet, Sunday could be a pivotal moment. Will they make the playoffs, or will they be watching from home? The answer lies in the hands of both the Chiefs and their AFC rivals.
