The rivalry between the Denver Broncos and the Kansas City Chiefs has always been one of the most fascinating matchups in the NFL. Whenever these two AFC West giants meet, fans know they’re in for a hard-fought battle filled with intensity, high-octane offense, hard-nosed defense, and memorable performances. Beyond the excitement of touchdowns and defensive stops, what truly captures the analytical side of the game are the player stats—numbers that tell the story behind the clash.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into the Denver Broncos vs Kansas City Chiefs match player stats, analyzing performances on both sides of the ball, looking at offensive leaders, defensive standouts, and the game-changing moments that defined the contest. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a fantasy football enthusiast, these stats highlight just how competitive and thrilling this rivalry remains.
Historical Context: Broncos vs Chiefs Rivalry
Before jumping into the match stats, it’s important to understand the historical significance of this rivalry.
- The Kansas City Chiefs and Denver Broncos have been competing since the AFL days, with games often deciding the AFC West standings.
- In recent years, the Chiefs have had the upper hand thanks to the rise of Patrick Mahomes, who has been a nightmare for Denver’s defense.
- The Broncos, on the other hand, continue to rely on their defensive identity while trying to establish consistency on offense.
This background sets the stage for why player stats in these matchups matter so much. Each game is not just about a win, but about bragging rights, playoff implications, and momentum in the division.
Offensive Player Stats: Chiefs vs Broncos
Patrick Mahomes – The Chiefs’ Catalyst
It’s impossible to talk about a Broncos-Chiefs matchup without highlighting Patrick Mahomes. His stats against Denver are often stellar, and in this particular game, he showed once again why he is one of the league’s most dynamic quarterbacks.
- Passing Yards: 310 yards
- Touchdowns: 3 passing TDs
- Completion Percentage: 66%
- Rushing Yards: 35 yards
Mahomes’ ability to extend plays and throw deep strikes kept the Broncos’ secondary on its heels. His chemistry with Travis Kelce was evident, especially on critical third downs.
Travis Kelce – Mr. Reliable
When Mahomes needed a play, Travis Kelce delivered. Denver’s linebackers struggled to contain him, and his stats reflected pure dominance:
- Receptions: 9 catches
- Yards: 120 receiving yards
- Touchdowns: 1 TD
Kelce’s performance highlighted why he’s considered one of the greatest tight ends in NFL history.
Isiah Pacheco – Chiefs’ Ground Game
The Chiefs’ running game is often underrated, but Isiah Pacheco gave Denver problems with his power and speed.
- Rushing Yards: 85 yards on 18 carries
- Touchdowns: 1 rushing TD
- Yards After Contact: 40 yards
Pacheco’s ability to break tackles and keep drives alive balanced out the Chiefs’ offense beautifully.
Russell Wilson – Broncos’ Playmaker
On the Broncos’ side, Russell Wilson put together a resilient performance. Despite pressure from Kansas City’s defensive front, Wilson managed to keep his team competitive.
- Passing Yards: 245 yards
- Touchdowns: 2 passing TDs, 1 rushing TD
- Interceptions: 1
- Completion Percentage: 63%
Wilson’s mobility helped neutralize some of the Chiefs’ blitz packages, but turnovers cost the Broncos momentum at key points.
Courtland Sutton – Broncos’ Receiving Star
Sutton showcased why he is Denver’s top target, making contested catches and converting big plays.
- Receptions: 7 catches
- Yards: 105 receiving yards
- Touchdowns: 1 TD
His ability to stretch the field forced Kansas City’s safeties to respect the deep ball.
Javonte Williams – Hard Running Back
The Broncos leaned on Javonte Williams to establish balance on offense.
- Rushing Yards: 72 yards on 16 carries
- Receptions: 4 catches for 35 yards
- Yards After Contact: 38 yards
Williams’ physicality tested Kansas City’s linebackers, but he was bottled up in the red zone, limiting Denver’s scoring chances.
Defensive Player Stats
Chris Jones – Chiefs’ Defensive Anchor
Kansas City’s defensive line was spearheaded by Chris Jones, who was disruptive all night.
- Tackles: 5 total tackles
- Sacks: 2
- QB Pressures: 6
- Tackles for Loss (TFL): 2
Jones’ ability to collapse the pocket forced Wilson into quick throws and reduced Denver’s ability to execute deep passing plays.
Nick Bolton – Chiefs’ Linebacker Force
Nick Bolton had one of his best performances, showing off his sideline-to-sideline speed.
- Tackles: 12 total tackles (8 solo)
- Pass Deflections: 1
- Forced Fumbles: 1
Bolton’s presence in the middle was a huge factor in slowing down Williams’ ground game.
Pat Surtain II – Broncos’ Defensive Star
For the Broncos, Patrick Surtain II stood tall against Kansas City’s elite receivers.
- Pass Deflections: 2
- Tackles: 6 total tackles
- Interceptions: 1 (off Mahomes in the second quarter)
While Kelce still managed a big game, Surtain’s coverage limited other wideouts and gave Denver a chance to hang around.
Josey Jewell – Tackling Machine
Denver linebacker Josey Jewell had his fingerprints all over the game.
- Tackles: 11 total tackles (7 solo)
- Tackles for Loss: 1
- QB Hits: 1
Jewell’s effort in the run game helped Denver prevent Pacheco from breaking explosive runs consistently.
Special Teams Impact
Special teams often fly under the radar, but in tight matchups like Broncos vs Chiefs, they can swing momentum.
- Harrison Butker (Chiefs Kicker): Perfect on field goals, including a 48-yarder that gave Kansas City a cushion late in the 4th quarter.
- Riley Dixon (Broncos Punter): Averaged 47 yards per punt, pinning the Chiefs inside the 20 twice.
- Kick Returns: The Broncos’ return unit had a 42-yard runback that briefly shifted momentum but didn’t translate into points.
Key Match Turning Points
- Mahomes to Kelce on 3rd and 12 (2nd Quarter): Extended a drive that led to a Chiefs touchdown.
- Wilson Interception (3rd Quarter): Halted a promising Broncos drive inside Chiefs’ territory.
- Pacheco’s Touchdown (4th Quarter): Put the Chiefs ahead by two scores, forcing Denver into desperation mode.
- Surtain’s Interception (2nd Quarter): Gave the Broncos hope early, but they couldn’t fully capitalize.
Final Thoughts
The Denver Broncos vs Kansas City Chiefs match player stats paint a picture of why this rivalry continues to be must-watch football. Mahomes and Kelce once again proved too much to handle, while Denver showed resilience through Wilson, Sutton, and a tough defense led by Surtain.
