Keys to Victory vs the Chiefs

For the first time in many Bengals’ fans life, the Bengals have not only won a playoff game, but are also playing in the AFC conference championship game.

The Bengals visit to Kanas City, where they will play the Patrick Mahomes led Chiefs. Arrowhead stadium is one of the loudest and toughest stadiums to play at, and the Chiefs are one of the hottest teams in the league. The Bengals may have beaten the Chiefs just a few weeks ago, but this Chiefs team is playing at elite level that will be tough to match. The Bengals will have an extremely tough game, so what will it take to win?

Eliminating the Big Plays 

The Chiefs live for the big plays. Chiefs like to score and score quick. And they have the playmakers to do so, as we have seen week after week. Between Travis Kelce and Tyreek Hill, the Bengals will have work cut out for them. 

Last time the two teams met, the Bengals’ defense was able to hold Hill to 40 yards, and Kelce to just 25 yards ( it also a touchdown). The Chiefs will be looking to fix that issue. The Bengals’ defense need to hold them in check again to win

Utilizing Tee Higgins and Tyler Boyd

After what Ja’Marr Chase did to the Chiefs in week 17, there’s no doubt that the Chiefs will likely be keying in on Ja’Marr Chase. The great thing about that, is the Bengals have Tyler Boyd and Tee Higgins. The Chiefs cornerbacks struggles tremendously against all the Bengals. If the Chiefs focus in on Chase like how it is expected, than the Bengals must scheme for Higgins and Boyd. 

Blocking

Duh.

Blitzing Mahomes 

Arguably the most impressive stat from the week 17 matchup was the Bengals defense just allowing 3 points in the 2nd half. I’m the 2nd half, Anarumo called more blitz, and it slowed down the Chiefs offense. With the Bengals interior defensive line beat up, they’ll need help to create pressure. The Bengals must blitz Mahomes.

Have the Ball Last

This is a game that will likely go down to the wire. Two explosive offenses who can score at anytime. That being the case, the team who has the ball last will likely win.

Look at last week for both teams. In the Bengals-Titans game, the game came down to a last second field goal by Evan McPherson. In the Chiefs-Bills game, the chiefs got the ball back with 13 seconds, was still able to tie the game, and then proceeded to win in overtime. 

Whoever has the ball last will win the game.

The Bengals have a chance to play in the Super Bowl. The Bengals will have the toughest challenge of the season. But they can (and I think they will) win this game.