For the first time since January 16, 1994, the Kansas City Chiefs have won a playoff game.
The Chiefs dominated the Texans today in Houston, controlling the game from the opening kickoff (a 106-yard touchdown by Knile Davis) through the final whistle. When it was all over, the score was 30-0.
It’s the 11th consecutive win for the Chiefs, who were one of the hottest teams in the NFL over the second half of the season and continued to look good today. But it wasn’t a perfect game for the Chiefs: Jeremy Maclin, their best wide receiver, left with what appeared to be a significant knee injury, and the offense was ineffective for long stretches early in the game.
Still, while the game wasn’t a perfect showing for the Chiefs, it was good enough that they have to feel good moving forward. They’ll head to either Denver or New England next weekend, and although they’d be an underdog against either opponent, they won’t be an easy team to beat.
The Texans had a hugely disappointing loss that will raise questions about the future of quarterback Brian Hoyer. With four interceptions and a lost fumble, Hoyer was downright terrible, and coach Bill O’Brien may not think he can justify going into the 2016 season with Hoyer as his starter.
The Chiefs, however, know they have a quarterback in Alex Smith who is calmly effective if not spectacular, as well as a good running game and a good defense. That could be a winning combination in the playoffs. It was certainly enough for a big win today.