Is that what it feels like to watch the actual 2025 Kansas City Chiefs?
Was it because Xavier Worthy was back? Was it due to the overwhelming injuries affecting the Baltimore Ravens? Was it the young offensive linemen — or a stellar game plan?
Each of these questions could be answered in the affirmative. The Chiefs dominated the Ravens 37-20 on Sunday afternoon. It was as complete a game as we’ve seen in a while — and with some big plays, it was fun to watch, too!
Here are a few who stood out as Kansas City showed who they (hopefully) are.
Wide receiver Xavier Worthy: For the Chiefs’ offense, the first three weeks of the season were rough. Being without the second-year wideout was often cited as the reason — or the excuse. Worthy returned against Baltimore — and his impact was undeniable. He led the team in receiving with 83 yards and rushing with 38, including a 37-yard catch and Kansas City’s longest run of the season: an end-around for 35 yards. The broadcasters couldn’t stop talking about how his presence helped Travis Kelce and the entire offense. Was it a small sample size? Yes. But they still might have been right.
The offensive line: The entire unit earns a place in the winner’s column after a confidence-inspiring effort. Left guard Kingsley Suamataia allowed no pressures and delivered strong run blocks. Left tackle Josh Simmons continued to look elite — even while getting downfield on Worthy’s long run. Center Creed Humphrey opened lanes up the middle. Right guard Trey Smith battled through an injury scare and dominated. Last — but not least — right tackle Jawaan Taylor capped the unit’s performance with clean play and no penalties.
Tight end Travis Kelce: The best word to describe his performance was efficient. He caught five passes on five targets, moving the chains like we’ve learned to expect. The veteran brought energy, keeping the offense on schedule against a depleted Ravens defense.
Running backs Brashard Smith, Isiah Pacheco and Kareem Hunt: These three combined to form a competent rushing attack. Collectively, they logged 24 carries for 78 yards — and added six catches for 51 yards and a Pacheco touchdown. None were spectacular on their own — Pacheco and Smith each dropped a screen that could have been a huge play — but together they provided balance. Hunt converted five times in short-yardage situations on third or fourth down. Smith showed enough open-field explosion to warrant more touches. Pacheco continued to run hard — and his touchdown gave Kansas City a two-score lead that it never surrendered.
Linebacker Leo Chenal: All of the linebackers played well, but the former Wisconsin Badger stood out with his first career interception — a one-handed grab while covering a receiver downfield. The versatile linebacker consistently found himself around the ball, showcasing his strength and athleticism.
Cornerback Nohl Williams: Over the last three weeks, the secondary has quietly been dominant. The rookie corner has been a big part of that. He turned in a tremendous rep against DeAndre Hopkins, further proving he is a day-one contributor at outside cornerback.
Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo: His scheme was the driving force as the defense found success at every level. While unit collected just three sacks, pressure was applied on 48 percent of Baltimore’s dropbacks, forcing a fumble and an interception. The Chiefs also came up with three fourth-down stops, effectively forcing five turnovers — and leaving the Ravens no chance to mount a comeback.
Quarterback Patrick Mahomes: The MVP was brilliant on Sunday, finishing with four touchdowns, no turnovers and just one sack. Mahomes looked confident and comfortable, operating from the pocket and letting his teammates make plays — rather than taking over with his legs. Credit also goes to the offensive line. As long as Mahomes trusts the protection, there isn’t much that can stop him.
Kicker Harrison Butker: For most players, three out of four isn’t bad. But expectations for NFL placekickers are higher. Butker has now missed a kick in every game this season. On Sunday, it was a 56-yarder late in the second quarter. The Ravens quickly answered with a field goal of their own, creating a six-point swing. It didn’t cost Kansas City the game, but the trend is becoming a concern.
Tight end Noah Gray: Gray’s quiet season continued, with just one target resulting in a one-yard gain. Expectations for his production rose as Kelce’s usage decreased, but the payoff has yet to come.
Note: The labels “winners” and “losers” are not judgments on the talent or character of these individuals. They’re simply a way to grade performance in a single game. No disrespect is intended.
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