Stephen A. Smith Drops Surprising Truth About Chiefs’ Chances That Fans Can’t Ignore

So here we are—Kansas City Chiefs, the three-time reigning AFC champs, just took a knee in Orchard Park against the Buffalo Bills, dropping a 28-21 decision that’s got everyone wondering: are the Chiefs fizzling out or just warming up? I mean, after three straight Super Bowl runs, can you really write off Andy Reid’s crew just because their mojo seems a bit rusted? ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith isn’t buying it—his take? No way Mahomes and company miss the playoffs, despite last year’s flawless nail-biters turning into a puzzling 0-4 skid this season. There’s that nagging question though—what’s behind the inconsistency? And will the leadership trio of Reid, Mahomes, and Kelce be enough to right the ship? As the clock ticks and the schedule tightens, the Chiefs’ true identity—and playoff fate—are hanging in the balance. Buckle up, because this rollercoaster isn’t slowing down just yet.

ORCHARD PARK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 02: Head coach Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs take the field prior to the game against the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium on November 02, 2025 in Orchard Park, New York. — (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)

The Buffalo Bills delivered a defining performance on Sunday, defeating the three-time defending AFC champion Kansas City Chiefs 28-21 in a statement victory.

The result has raised questions about whether Kansas City can maintain its grip on the conference and secure a playoff berth this season.

Despite the concerns, counting out a franchise that has reached three consecutive Super Bowl appearances carries significant risk.

ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith addressed those doubts during Monday’s episode of First Take.

He made it clear that writing off Kansas City at this stage would be premature, given their recent track record and the talent still on the roster.

“Kansas City and Patrick Mahomes ain’t missing no playoffs. It’s not happening. Last year, they were unblemished in one-score games. This year, they’re 0-4. It’s definitely been a shift. It’s somewhat alarming. I get that part. In terms of [the Chiefs] missing the playoffs altogether? No way in h–l do I believe that’s going to happen,” Smith said.

"In terms of [the Chiefs] missing the playoffs all together? No way in hell do I believe that's going to happen."@stephenasmith expects the Chiefs to be in the playoffs this season despite their recent form pic.twitter.com/UL7hryMsDB

— First Take (@FirstTake) November 4, 2025

Smith pointed to the leadership of head coach Andy Reid and the presence of Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce as reasons for his confidence.

He acknowledged the urgency facing Kansas City but insisted they remain capable of reaching the postseason when execution improves.

The Chiefs’ offense has shown flashes of brilliance but has struggled with consistency throughout the campaign.

A 31-0 shutout victory over the Las Vegas Raiders earlier in the year suggested the unit had regained its form after opening losses to the Los Angeles Chargers and Philadelphia Eagles.

In those two defeats, Kansas City managed just 38 combined points.

The inconsistency has left questions about their identity this season.

At 5-4, the Chiefs remain in playoff contention despite their struggles.

Their next challenge arrives on November 16 when they travel to face the Denver Broncos.

That matchup will provide another opportunity to prove the ESPN analyst’s faith in their postseason chances remains justified.

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