The Chiefs' Lucky Streak: Are They Really the NFL's New Patriots?

The Kansas City Chiefs have won two close games in a row, with some questioning whether they've been lucky or simply smart.

The Kansas City Chiefs have emerged as one of the NFL's most dominant teams in recent years, winning three Super Bowls in the past six seasons. Led by quarterback Patrick Mahomes and head coach Andy Reid, the Chiefs have consistently found ways to win close games. However, their recent success has also raised questions about whether they are simply lucky or if there is something more to their winning ways.

In Week 1, the Chiefs defeated the Baltimore Ravens in a thrilling 36-35 game. The Ravens had a chance to tie the game with a two-point conversion after Isaiah Likely caught a touchdown pass with just seconds remaining. However, upon review, it was determined that Likely had stepped out of bounds before making the catch, giving the Chiefs the win.

The Chiefs' Lucky Streak: Are They Really the NFL's New Patriots?

In Week 2, the Chiefs once again found themselves in a close game against the Cincinnati Bengals. This time, the Chiefs appeared to be on the verge of losing when Bengals receiver Ja'Marr Chase was penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct, pushing them back 15 yards and forcing them to settle for a field goal. Later in the game, Bengals safety Daijahn Anthony was flagged for defensive pass interference on a fourth-and-16 play, giving the Chiefs a first down. The Chiefs were able to kick a game-winning field goal as time expired.

Some observers, such as "First Things First" host Nick Wright, believe that the Chiefs have been incredibly lucky to win their first two games. Wright pointed to the penalties against Chase and Anthony as evidence of the Chiefs' good fortune.

The Chiefs' Lucky Streak: Are They Really the NFL's New Patriots?

However, others, such as "The Facility" co-host Chase Daniel, believe that the Chiefs' success is due to their ability to make plays in key moments. Daniel pointed to Mahomes' 44-yard touchdown pass to Rashee Rice in the fourth quarter as an example of the Chiefs' ability to execute under pressure.

Colin Cowherd, host of "The Herd," went even further, comparing the Chiefs to the New England Patriots dynasty of the 2000s. Cowherd argued that the Chiefs, like the Patriots, have a knack for winning close games in the clutch. Cowherd credited Mahomes and Reid for their ability to make smart decisions in key moments.

"It's like the Patriots handed the baton to the Chiefs on how to win games late against rivals," Cowherd said. "That's what they said for 20 years about New England: ‘Just lucky New England.' The Chiefs have officially become the Patriots' dynasty. They just figure out ways to win games."

The Chiefs' success is undeniable, but whether it is due to luck or something more is a matter of debate. However, one thing is for sure: the Chiefs are a team to be reckoned with, and they will be a contender for the Super Bowl every year as long as Mahomes and Reid are at the helm.