The Kansas City Chiefs secured a dramatic 19-17 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders in a thrilling Week 13 Black Friday matchup, continuing their dominant season with an 11-1 record. However, the game highlighted ongoing challenges that left the team striving for better performance as the playoffs approach.
In the final moments of the game, the Raiders were in prime position to at least tie the score with a field goal. However, rookie center Jackson Powers-Johnson‘s premature snap on third down resulted in a fumbled ball that Chiefs defenders swiftly recovered, crushing the Raiders‘ hopes of a comeback.
Taylor Swift’s heartwarming gesture after Chiefs’ victory: A moment that stole hearts
Despite the Chiefs‘ win, their offense had to work hard for every yard. Tight end Travis Kelce delivered a solid performance with seven receptions for 68 yards, including a creative lateral pass to Samaje Perine for a critical first down. Yet the Chiefs‘ offensive struggles were evident, prompting post-game reflections from quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
“We’re not satisfied with where we’re at even though we’re winning football games,” Mahomes said. “Our goal over these last few games is to prove we are the team we believe we really are going into the playoffs.”
The game was not without its star-studded moments, as Travis Kelce’s girlfriend, Taylor Swift, joined her father, Scott Swift, and his mother, Donna Kelce, in the stands to cheer him on. Their presence added to the excitement, though Kelce himself appeared subdued after the win, opting not to speak to reporters.
Kelce congratulated Allen
Kelce, however, made time to congratulate Bills quarterback Josh Allen and actress Hailee Steinfeld on their recent engagement.
Allen shared the news on Instagram, and Kelce responded with a heartfelt, “Congratulations!!!.” Steinfeld, a friend of Swift, had previously worked with the pop star on her iconic “Bad Blood” music video, adding a touch of Hollywood camaraderie to the NFL world.
While the Chiefs have officially clinched a playoff spot and remain at the top of the AFC standings, their recent games have shown vulnerabilities. Kansas City’s defense and offense both have room for improvement, a sentiment echoed by Mahomes
“We have to get better. Everyone in our locker room knows that,” he noted.
