NFL Picks

Buffalo Bills vs Kansas City Chiefs – AFC Championship Preview – Jan 26, 2025

The Buffalo Bills (13-4) travel to GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium to take on the Kansas City Chiefs (15-2) on Sunday, January 26, 2025, at 6:30 PM ET. This is a rematch of the 2021 AFC Championship game, where Kansas City emerged victorious. The Bills got the upper hand in their most recent meeting, winning 30-21 during Week 11 of the regular season.

Both teams bring high-powered offenses and playoff experience to this matchup. Kansas City is riding an eight-game home playoff win streak, while Buffalo is looking to advance to the Super Bowl for the first time since the early 1990s. The stakes are high, and the atmosphere at Arrowhead will be electric.

Buffalo Bills Preview – Momentum on Their Side

The Bills have been one of the league’s most consistent teams this season, finishing with the second-highest scoring offense (30.7 points per game). Quarterback Josh Allen has led the way with his dual-threat ability, throwing for over 4,000 yards and rushing for 800 yards during the regular season. In the playoffs, he has relied on key targets like Keon Coleman and Dawson Knox, while James Cook has provided a strong presence in the backfield.

Buffalo’s defense has been opportunistic, ranking in the top 10 in takeaways. However, injuries to key defenders like Matt Milano and Taylor Rapp could present challenges against Kansas City’s dynamic offense. The Bills will need their pass rush, led by Greg Rousseau and Ed Oliver, to disrupt Patrick Mahomes and force him into quick decisions.

Coach Sean McDermott has emphasized the importance of composure in a hostile environment. The Bills have played well on the road this season, but Arrowhead presents a unique challenge. Buffalo will need a complete team effort to secure a victory.

Kansas City Chiefs Preview – Defending the Kingdom

The Chiefs are seeking their third consecutive Super Bowl appearance and enter this game with the league’s best home record. Patrick Mahomes continues to showcase why he’s one of the NFL’s best quarterbacks, throwing for over 5,000 yards this season. His connection with Travis Kelce and offseason addition DeAndre Hopkins has made the offense nearly unstoppable.

Kansas City’s defense has been a strength as well, giving up just 18.9 points per game. Chris Jones anchors the defensive line, while linebackers Nick Bolton and Drue Tranquill lead a unit that excels in stopping the run. The Chiefs will look to capitalize on Buffalo’s offensive line struggles, applying pressure to disrupt Josh Allen’s rhythm.

The Chiefs have thrived under playoff pressure, and Mahomes’ ability to elevate his play in big moments has been the key to their postseason success. Head coach Andy Reid will lean on his experience and play-calling to gain an edge in this heavyweight battle.

Betting Prediction

Kansas City is a 1.5-point favorite, with the total set at 48.5. The Chiefs have been dominant at home, going 9-0 during the regular season. Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs’ offense are difficult to stop at Arrowhead, and their defense has the ability to contain Josh Allen’s big-play potential.

Projected final score: Kansas City 27, Buffalo 24. The Chiefs will cover the spread and advance to their third straight Super Bowl. Expect the under to hit as both defenses rise to the occasion in this pivotal matchup.

Pick: Kansas City -1.5, Under 48.5

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