The much-awaited game between the Buffalo Bills (8-2) and the Kansas City Chiefs (9-0) is happening on November 17, 2024, at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park, New York. Both teams are riding high on winning streaks: the Bills have won five wins in a row, and the Chiefs are still perfect this season with nine straight wins. With playoff spots on the line, this matchup could be important for both teams as they aim for the top seed in the AFC.
Buffalo Bills
The Bills are sitting pretty at third place in scoring offense, putting up an average of 29.0 points each game. Quarterback Josh Allen is at the lead, racking up 2,281 passing yards along with 17 touchdowns and just four picks this season. He’s also a threat on the ground, with 261 rushing yards and four rushing touchdowns, proving he can do it all. Allen’s skills in extending plays and delivering key throws when the pressure’s on will be vital as they face a tough Chiefs defense.
The Bills’ running game gets a nice boost from James Cook, who has racked up 576 yards and eight touchdowns, averaging 4.5 yards per carry. His rise as a dependable option from the backfield gives Buffalo’s offense an extra edge, helping them keep a well-rounded attack.
Buffalo’s defense is holding strong, sitting at ninth place for points allowed, giving up just 19.3 per game. Their pass defense is impressive too, keeping opponents to an average of 212.9 passing yards. The defensive line, featuring stars like Greg Rousseau and Ed Oliver, does a great job of pressuring quarterbacks and shutting down the run game. Linebacker Dorian Williams has stepped up big time, leading the squad with 91 tackles, and safety Taylor Rapp brings some solid experience to the secondary.
Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs are heading into this matchup with a solid offensive game plan, sitting at tenth in total yards per game and eleventh in points scored. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes has had his share of ups and downs, throwing nine interceptions this season, but he’s still racked up over 2,300 passing yards. His ability to make plays when the heat is on really stands out, and he’s great at using his mobility to keep plays alive and connect with receivers down the field.
The Chiefs’ ground game has had its ups and downs, averaging just 3.8 yards per carry, yet they still find ways to put points on the board. Running back Jerick McKinnon has been a solid choice, making big plays in both the run and pass game, which really adds to Kansas City’s offensive options.
Kansas City’s defense has been pretty good overall, but they’ve had their ups and downs, giving up about 21.8 points per game to strong offenses. They might face some challenges with key injuries; running back Isiah Pacheco is questionable for the game because of an ankle issue, which could hurt their running game and put more pressure on Mahomes to throw the ball.
Key Players to Watch
Buffalo Bills
Josh Allen: His ability to be a dual threat will be key when facing a Chiefs defense that has a hard time with mobile quarterbacks.
James Cook: Keep an eye out for him to take advantage of any weaknesses in Kansas City’s run defense.
Kansas City Chiefs
Patrick Mahomes: His ability to keep plays alive is important; he really needs to cut down on turnovers.
Travis Kelce: Since Mahomes relies on him the most, how he plays will really impact the result of the game.
Betting Insights
The Bills are slightly favored by 2 points, and the over/under is at 46 points. Experts recommend betting on the Bills to cover the spread, thanks to their home advantage and solid recent performance.
Given how both teams are playing right now, I think it’s going to be a close game. The Bills have the home field advantage and a strong offense, which I believe will give them the edge over the undefeated Chiefs.
Sports Betting Ace’s Final Score Prediction: Buffalo Bills 24 – Kansas City Chiefs 21