Kelce ties TD record as Chiefs defeat Commanders 28-7; Mahomes praises teammate
Travis Kelce's milestone touchdown highlights the Kansas City Chiefs dominant victory over the Washington Commanders.
Why it matters: This game not only solidifies Kelce's legacy within the Chiefs franchise but also showcases the team's offensive capabilities as they continue their strong season performance.
- Kelce's 83rd career touchdown ties him with Priest Holmes for the most in franchise history, emphasizing his role as a pivotal figure in the Chiefs’ offense.
- With this win, the Chiefs have now secured five victories in their last six games, all by at least ten points, indicating their growing momentum as they approach the postseason.
What's new: In a commanding 28-7 victory, Kelce achieved a significant personal milestone while contributing substantially to the team’s success.
- The tight end caught six passes for 99 yards and scored a 10-yard touchdown that highlighted his ability to thrive against zone coverage employed by the Commanders.
By the numbers: Kelce's production was particularly notable given the context of the game.
- Although his first target resulted in a one-yard loss and the second was intercepted, he rebounded effectively, demonstrating resilience and adaptability—key traits of elite players in the NFL.
Yes, but: While Kelce's performance was impressive, the Chiefs did experience challenges early on that could raise questions about their consistency.
- The first half saw the team struggle against Washington's defense, which initially stifled their offensive rhythm before the Chiefs found their footing after halftime.
What to watch: As the season progresses, the connection between Kelce and quarterback Patrick Mahomes continues to develop.
- The duo has become the third quarterback-tight end pairing in NFL history to connect for 75 touchdowns, joining notable names like Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski and Philip Rivers and Antonio Gates.
The bottom line: Kelce's milestone is a testament to his enduring talent and commitment to the Chiefs.
- Reflecting on his accomplishment, he stated, "I just cherish these moments... This place is special." His sentiment encapsulates the pride both he and the organization feel as they aim for further success this season.
Zoom In: Kelce’s performance serves as a reminder of his importance beyond statistics.
- Teammate Rashee Rice noted, “He’s a very patient player, and I’ve been learning that from him constantly,” highlighting how Kelce's skill set benefits younger players on the roster and contributes to the overall team dynamics.
