Sep 15, 2024, 12:00 AM
Sep 15, 2024, 12:00 AM

Chiefs triumph in low-scoring game despite Kelce’s rare struggle

Provocative
Highlights
  • Travis Kelce caught only one pass for five yards against the Cincinnati Bengals, marking his lowest yardage total since Mahomes became the starting quarterback.
  • The Bengals' defense focused on Kelce, often double-teaming him, which limited his impact on the game.
  • Despite Kelce's struggles, the Chiefs won the game 26-25, and Mahomes expressed confidence that Kelce would bounce back as the season progresses.
Story

In a recent game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Travis Kelce, the Kansas City Chiefs' star tight end, had an unusually low performance, catching only one pass for five yards. This marked the lowest receiving yardage total for Kelce since Patrick Mahomes became the starting quarterback. Mahomes noted that the Bengals' defense focused heavily on Kelce, often double-teaming him throughout the match. Despite this, the Chiefs managed to secure a narrow 26-25 victory. Kelce's only reception occurred on the first play of the second half, and he struggled to make an impact, with a run on a 1st and goal gaining just one yard. Mahomes himself had a challenging game, throwing for only 151 yards and two interceptions, one of which was intended for Kelce. The Bengals' defense effectively neutralized Kelce, which allowed other players, like wide receiver Rashee Rice, to step up and contribute to the team's scoring. The Chiefs' coaching staff employed various strategies to utilize Kelce and other tight ends creatively, including unique alignments. However, the Bengals' defensive adjustments proved effective, particularly in the first half, where they limited Kelce's opportunities. Despite the struggles, Mahomes expressed confidence that Kelce would regain his form as the season progresses. Kelce, a nine-time Pro Bowler, remains a crucial asset for the Chiefs, and his limited production in this game does not diminish his status as one of the best tight ends in NFL history. As the season unfolds, both Mahomes and Kelce are expected to find their rhythm and continue to be key contributors to the team's success.

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