Posted on Nov 03

Bills defeat Chiefs 28-21, handing Mahomes his first losing bye week since 2018

Posted Nov 3, 2025

The Kansas City Chiefs are facing uncharacteristic struggles after their recent loss to the Buffalo Bills, marking a pivotal moment as they enter their bye week with a losing record.

Why it matters: This defeat not only brings the Chiefs’ record to 5-4 but also signals potential issues within a team that has thrived under quarterback Patrick Mahomes since he took over as starter in 2018.

For the first time in his tenure, the Chiefs head into a bye week with a losing record, raising concerns about their playoff aspirations.
The team's inability to win close games is particularly alarming, with four one-score losses this season.

What’s new: In their latest matchup, the Bills secured a 28-21 victory, showcasing a stark contrast in offensive execution.

Josh Allen achieved an impressive 88.5% completion rate—setting a franchise record for minimum attempts—while Mahomes struggled, completing just 15 of 34 passes (44.1%).
The Bills tight ends Dalton Kincaid and Dawson Knox combined for 131 yards and a touchdown, exposing gaps in the Chiefs' defensive coverage.

Yes, but: While the Bills capitalized on weaknesses, the Chiefs’ performance reflects broader challenges.

Mahomes faced relentless pressure, with a staggering 52.6% of his dropbacks resulting in duress, leading to a dismal completion rate of 18.8% when under pressure.
Trey Smith noted that the Bills relied on unconventional strategies, including utilizing smaller, more agile defenders which proved effective against the Chiefs’ offensive line.

By the numbers: Statistical analysis reveals critical areas requiring attention for Kansas City.

With James Cook III rushing for 114 yards, the Chiefs allowed the most ground yards to a single running back this season, emphasizing vulnerabilities in run defense.
The Bills scored 21 points in the first half, exceeding the Chiefs' average of 16.4 points allowed per game—the second fewest in the league, highlighting a significant shift in performance dynamics.

What to watch: As the Chiefs look ahead, several key factors could influence their trajectory.

Mahomes acknowledged the need for improved consistency, stating, "We've had great moments and we've had bad moments," highlighting the inconsistency plaguing the offense.
Chris Jones emphasized the necessity for defensive improvements, stressing the importance of affecting opposing quarterbacks to regain control in future matchups.

The bottom line: The Chiefs must address their shortcomings during the bye week if they hope to turn around their season.

With tougher games ahead and limited margin for error, the upcoming weeks will be crucial in determining whether Kansas City can reclaim its former dominance.

Bills defeat Chiefs 28-21, handing Mahomes his first losing bye week since 2018

Alex Parker

Posted Nov 3, 2025

The Kansas City Chiefs are facing uncharacteristic struggles after their recent loss to the Buffalo Bills, marking a pivotal moment as they enter their bye week with a losing record.

For the first time in his tenure, the Chiefs head into a bye week with a losing record, raising concerns about their playoff aspirations.

The team's inability to win close games is particularly alarming, with four one-score losses this season.

What’s new: In their latest matchup, the Bills secured a 28-21 victory, showcasing a stark contrast in offensive execution.

Josh Allen achieved an impressive 88.5% completion rate—setting a franchise record for minimum attempts—while Mahomes struggled, completing just 15 of 34 passes (44.1%).

The Bills tight ends Dalton Kincaid and Dawson Knox combined for 131 yards and a touchdown, exposing gaps in the Chiefs' defensive coverage.

Yes, but: While the Bills capitalized on weaknesses, the Chiefs’ performance reflects broader challenges.

Mahomes faced relentless pressure, with a staggering 52.6% of his dropbacks resulting in duress, leading to a dismal completion rate of 18.8% when under pressure.

Trey Smith noted that the Bills relied on unconventional strategies, including utilizing smaller, more agile defenders which proved effective against the Chiefs’ offensive line.

By the numbers: Statistical analysis reveals critical areas requiring attention for Kansas City.

With James Cook III rushing for 114 yards, the Chiefs allowed the most ground yards to a single running back this season, emphasizing vulnerabilities in run defense.

The Bills scored 21 points in the first half, exceeding the Chiefs' average of 16.4 points allowed per game—the second fewest in the league, highlighting a significant shift in performance dynamics.

What to watch: As the Chiefs look ahead, several key factors could influence their trajectory.

Mahomes acknowledged the need for improved consistency, stating, "We've had great moments and we've had bad moments," highlighting the inconsistency plaguing the offense.

Chris Jones emphasized the necessity for defensive improvements, stressing the importance of affecting opposing quarterbacks to regain control in future matchups.

The bottom line: The Chiefs must address their shortcomings during the bye week if they hope to turn around their season.

With tougher games ahead and limited margin for error, the upcoming weeks will be crucial in determining whether Kansas City can reclaim its former dominance.