Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce lead Chiefs to win over Commanders

KANSAS CITY, Mo.–First-time Chiefs quarterback patrick mahomes throw the ball to the tight end travis kels against Washington Commanders On Monday night, the game resulted in a 1-yard loss. But on the next play, Mahomes put the ball into Kelce’s hands. The only problem for the Chiefs was that the ball did not stop with Kelce, but bounced into the air and was intercepted by the linebacker. bobby wagner,

From that moment on, Kelce put on a vintage performance that inspired the Chiefs 28-7 Victory. Kelce led the Chiefs with six receptions on eight targets for 99 yards for his best game of the season.

Kelce’s 10-yard touchdown run late in the third quarter – giving the Chiefs a 14-point lead – was also historic, as his 83rd career score tied former running back Priest Holmes for most touchdowns in Chiefs franchise history.

The biggest highlight for Kansas City was when Kelce was not Mahomes’ first, second or third passing option on a play-action snap early in the third quarter. Kelce leaked after blocking a wide 38-yard gain, with the tight end breaking into the red zone.

Mahomes and Kelce are the third quarterback-tight end duo to record 75 touchdowns in NFL history, including playoffs, joining Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski (105) and Philip Rivers and Antonio Gates (90).

Here are the most important things to know from Monday night for both teams:

Most Amazing Performance: defensive end mike danna He has struggled a lot this season, but the five-year veteran had a memorable night. Danna finished the Commanders’ opening drive with an interception, the first of his career as a quarterback. marcus mariotaThe pass bounced off the receiver’s shoulder. deebo samuel,

And just before the end of the third quarter, Danna collected his first sack of the season, a 10-yard loss on third down that put the Commanders out of field goal range.

Statistics to know: Monday’s game was another example of the Chiefs proving to be the NFL’s best offense on fourth down. Twice against the Commanders, the Chiefs converted on fourth down, the latter occurring at a crucial point early in the third quarter. On fourth-and-goal from the 2-yard line, Mahomes tried to punt on the play before running back Kareem Hunt Into the end zone for a touchdown.

Viewing Trends: The Chiefs should have all of their projected defensive starters available for Sunday’s game against the Bills, and have a group of linemen around the pass rusher. chris jones –defensive end George Karlaftis, Charles Omenihu And Danna – performing better than at the start of the season. — Nate Taylor

Next game: But buffalo bill (4:25 PM ET, Sunday)

The commanders did everything they could to defeat the chiefs. They turned the ball over, at least in the first half, forced turnovers and were aggressive on fourth downs.

It didn’t work.

Washington fell to 3-5 after Monday’s loss to Kansas City. The team, which won 12 games last season, is already fighting for its playoff life. The upcoming home game against Washington is Seattle Seahawks (5-2) and detroit lions (5-2).

Injuries played a significant role in the commanders’ early failures. He played his third game this season without a quarterback. jayden danielsThis time out because of a hamstring injuryThey also lost left tackle laremy tunsil to one hamstring injury In the first part.

But Washington’s defense, which stopped the quarterback patrick mahomes Twice in the first half, big plays were missed – often due to a player not performing his responsibilities. This resulted in gains of 27, 31, 38 and 24 yards. This has been a season-long issue and shows no signs of abating.

Washington, after outrebounding Kansas City 195–156 in the first half, finished with just 26–0 for the game. The Chiefs took over in the second half, causing more heartache and questions for Washington.

What is meant by QB performance: It is difficult to put all the blame for this on one person marcus mariotaWho completed 21 of 30 passes for 213 yards and one touchdown. He played with composure and kept his eyes downfield, which allowed him to make plays on the move. But key misses, two interceptions and an inability to make plays on fourth down took their toll.

turn: The first drives of the second half were the difference for each team. After Kansas City scored on its first possession for a 14–7 lead, Washington responded with a returner. jaylin lane Muffing the kickoff and starting from your own 2-yard line. Lane then dropped a pass on third down to end the drive – and the Chiefs rolled away.

Biggest hole in the game plan: The run game continues to struggle. Mariota led Washington in rushing with 28 yards. stopped Jacory Croskey-Merritt Finished with only 25 yards on nine carries. Washington needs to revive the run game in a hurry. –John Keim

Next game: versus Seattle Seahawks (8:20 PM ET, Sunday)