Mahomes praises Worthy's impact on offense: "It’s scary for defenses with him back."

In a decisive victory, the Kansas City Chiefs defeated the Baltimore Ravens 37-20, marking a triumphant return for wide receiver Xavier Worthy.

Why it matters: This win solidifies the Chiefs' position in the playoff race, showcasing their offensive depth and adaptability following Worthy's injury absence.

• The game highlighted the Chiefs’ ability to utilize multiple weapons effectively, with Worthy emerging as a key contributor after a two-game hiatus due to a dislocated shoulder.
• Patrick Mahomes, who completed 270 yards with four touchdowns, demonstrated the team's offensive potency when fully equipped.

What’s new: Worthy's performance was particularly noteworthy; he recorded a career-high 83 receiving yards alongside 38 rushing yards, indicating his versatility on the field.

• In addition to catching a 37-yard pass from Mahomes, he executed a 35-yard end-around run—the longest designed run for the Chiefs this season.
• Mahomes expressed the significance of Worthy’s presence, stating, "When you get the ball in his hands... it makes defenses have to adjust."

By the numbers: The Chiefs capitalized on a balanced offensive strategy that kept the Ravens on their toes.

• Mahomes spread the ball across nine different receivers, reflecting a commitment to diversity in their passing game amidst Rashee Rice's suspension and Jalen Royals’ ongoing recovery.
• Worthy played an impressive 41 snaps, contributing significantly to 58.6% of the team’s offensive plays.

Yes, but: While the win is encouraging, the Chiefs must remain vigilant against defensive strategies that could adapt to exploit their vulnerabilities.

• Mahomes had previously struggled under pressure, completing just 52% of his passes against blitzes. However, his performance against the Ravens suggests progress in managing defensive pressures effectively.
• Worthy's impact will be critical in future matchups, especially as opposing defenses study tape to learn how to neutralize his speed and agility on the field.

What’s next: Looking ahead, the Chiefs will aim to maintain momentum as they prepare for upcoming games, relying on Worthy’s dynamic playmaking abilities to enhance their offensive schemes.

• Head Coach Andy Reid noted, "I thought [offensive coordinator] Matt [Nagy] used [Worthy] the right way," emphasizing the strategic importance of integrating Worthy effectively into the game plan.
• As Worthy continues to regain full strength, the Chiefs are poised to leverage their full arsenal, making them a formidable opponent as the season progresses.

The bottom line: With Worthy's return, the Chiefs are reinforcing their status as contenders, blending talent and strategy to create a multi-faceted offense that can adapt to various challenges.