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Sports
07 January 2025

Broncos Clinch Playoff Spot With Dominant Victory

Denver secures seventh seed by defeating Chiefs 38-0 as Kansas City rests starters.

During the final week of the NFL regular season, the Denver Broncos seized their opportunity to secure the last playoff spot with a convincing 38-0 win over the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium on January 7, 2025. The victory not only cemented the Broncos' place as the seventh seed in the AFC playoffs, but it also underscored the Chiefs' decision to rest their starters, having already locked up the top spot.

The Chiefs entered the game with an impressive 15-1 record, having little to play for—but the Broncos needed the win desperately. With the stakes much higher for Denver, the Chiefs fielded predominantly backup players, including quarterback Carson Wentz, who struggled against the Broncos' defense with just 10 completed passes for 98 yards. Despite high hopes, Wentz's performance left many disappointed, as it was evident the Chiefs' lack of scoring opportunities was rooted deeply within their starting lineup's absence.

Patrick Mahomes, the Chiefs' star quarterback, looked on from the sidelines as his team failed to register any points throughout the game. Mahomes, who finished the season with 3,928 passing yards, expressed frustration post-game. "It was frustrating to not get any points up on the board," Mahomes remarked, underscoring the disappointment felt by the team.

The Chiefs had hoped to finish the season strong, aiming for history as they sought to become the first NFL team to win three consecutive Super Bowls. With injuries plaguing the team throughout the season—most significantly to pivotal players like Rashee Rice and Isiah Pacheco—the Chiefs found solace over their impressive campaign marked by 15 wins. Despite the disappointing finish, they were set to host the Divisional Round and potentially the AFC Championship Game at home.

Meanwhile, the Broncos celebrated their monumental win as it sealed their playoff destiny. Coach of the Broncos highlighted the importance of this victory, stating, "We needed this win to make the playoffs, and we delivered." They capitalized on the chance to prove their strength and readiness for the upcoming postseason.

Broncos quarterback play was stellar, as the team’s overall execution led them to dominate throughout the game, showing the sheer determination required to fight their way back to the playoffs. This victory serves as a significant morale boost heading forward—and it doesn’t hurt to defeat the team heavily favored throughout the regular season.

For Mahomes and the Chiefs, the challenge may now focus on performance improvements as they prep for what they hope will be another successful post-season run, bolstered by the energy from their fan base and the advantage of playing at home. While the Yards Tally for Mahomes may not have reached the previous season’s heights of 4,000 or more, his leadership on the field will remain invaluable.

With the playoffs looming, both teams head forward with different trajectories—the Broncos riding high on confidence and momentum, and the Chiefs seeking to rectify any setbacks from their last regular-season encounter. The postseason awaits, with both teams ready to make their respective marks as the situation rapidly shifts from rivals to contenders for glory.