Get ready for a showdown that could redefine the AFC West landscape! The Kansas City Chiefs are riding a three-game winning streak, but their Week 9 clash against the Buffalo Bills promises to be their toughest test yet. After dismantling the Washington Commanders 28-7, the Chiefs (5-3) hit the road to face a Bills team that’s no stranger to high-stakes matchups. But here’s where it gets controversial: Can the Chiefs exploit Buffalo’s glaring weakness—their run defense—or will they fall short in a game that could shape playoff positioning? Let’s dive into the three burning questions that will decide this critical matchup.
1. Can the Chiefs’ Ground Game Capitalize on Buffalo’s Defensive Weaknesses?
The Bills’ run defense has been a liability all season. Ranked 28th in defensive expected points added (EPA) against the run and 24th in success rate, they’ve allowed a staggering 5.5 yards per carry—the second-worst in the league. Their struggles stem from undersized personnel across all three levels of defense. Defensive tackles like DaQuan Jones (out this week) and Ed Oliver prioritize penetration over gap control, often leaving gaping holes when they fail to disrupt plays. Even rookie Deone Walker, despite his size, tends to chase upfield rather than anchor the line. At the second level, linebackers Terrell Bernard, Dorian Williams, and Matt Milano excel in coverage but struggle to shed blocks in the run game. And the safeties? Small, inconsistent tacklers who often take poor pursuit angles, allowing running backs to break free.
But here’s the twist: The Chiefs’ running game isn’t built for explosiveness. While efficient, it lacks the big-play capability to fully exploit Buffalo’s vulnerabilities. With Isiah Pacheco sidelined, Kareem Hunt becomes the primary back. Hunt is reliable for short gains but rarely breaks long runs. So, will Kansas City’s methodical approach be enough to wear down Buffalo’s defense, or will they need a spark they might not have?
2. Will the Chiefs’ Defensive Tackles Hold Their Ground Against Buffalo’s Bulldozing Offensive Line?
Buffalo’s offensive line is a force to be reckoned with, particularly in the run game. They thrive on double-teaming defensive tackles and creating massive lanes for Josh Allen and James Cook. This strategy has historically given the Chiefs trouble, as their defensive tackles—Derrick Nnadi and Jerry Tillery—are undersized and prone to being pushed around. While the Chiefs’ linebackers are better against the run than Buffalo’s, they’ll be neutralized if the defensive line can’t hold up.
And this is the part most people miss: Josh Allen isn’t just a quarterback; he’s a dual-threat playmaker who adds another layer to Buffalo’s rushing attack. His ability to power through—or even leap over—defenders makes him a nightmare to contain. The recent return of defensive tackle Mike Pennel could provide a much-needed boost, but will it be enough to stop the Bills’ ground assault?
3. Can the Chiefs’ Safeties Step Up as the Last Line of Defense?
If the Chiefs’ defensive tackles falter, the safeties will be the final barrier between Buffalo’s runners and the end zone. Bryan Cook, Chamarri Conner, and Jaden Hicks have been solid, but none match the tackling prowess of Justin Reid, who’s no longer with the team. Buffalo’s offense is designed to stress defenses horizontally, slowing down linebackers and creating openings for Cook and Allen to exploit. If the safeties miss tackles, those 8-to-10-yard gains could easily turn into 25-to-30-yard breakouts.
Here’s the million-dollar question: Can the Chiefs’ safeties rise to the occasion and make game-changing plays? If they do, it could be the difference between a win and a loss. But if they falter, Buffalo’s offense could run wild.
Final Thoughts: A Game of Strengths vs. Weaknesses
This matchup boils down to whether the Chiefs can exploit Buffalo’s run defense while containing their own vulnerabilities. If they limit long runs and force the Bills into predictable situations, defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo could dial up the pressure and secure a victory. But if Buffalo’s offensive line dominates and the Chiefs’ safeties struggle, it could be a long day for Kansas City.
What do you think? Can the Chiefs overcome their limitations and pull off the win, or will the Bills’ strengths prove too much to handle? Let us know in the comments—this debate is sure to spark some heated opinions!
