The Kansas City Chiefs needed all hands on deck against the Buffalo Bills this past Sunday. The AFC West champions entered Highmark Stadium with fans in the stands for the first time in years. Buffalo was arguably the league's hottest team entering the divisional round after winning six straight games, including a 31-17 win in the Wild Card round. Chiefs Kingdom all know their efforts went wide right in a hard-fought 27-24 Kansas City victory.
Several units stepped up in big ways against the AFC East champions. The defensive backfield is not getting enough credit, limiting Buffalo's best receivers in the passing attack. The tight end room made several clutch catches and toiled in the trenches all game long. But the most underestimated position group from Sunday has to be the offensive line.
Kansas City's offensive line has been shaky at times this season, but overall, the unit performed as expected this year. They provided excellent protection for Patrick Mahomes, allowing him to make key throws and extend plays with his legs. Additionally, they opened up running lanes for the Chiefs' rushing attack, which averaged more than six yards per rush on Sunday. Overall, the offensive line's performance was crucial in securing the victory and advancing to the next round of the playoffs.
Which players contributed the most via their blocking prowess? How did backup Nick Allegretti perform late in the game? I look at all six offensive linemen with offensive snaps against the Bills, grading each.