Kansas City (17-2) is set to face Philadelphia (17-3) this Sunday at 6:30 p.m. EST, with the game broadcasting on FOX. The Chiefs are favored by 1.5 points according to BetMGM NFL odds. In terms of the spread, Kansas City has a record of 9-10, while Philadelphia stands at 13-7. Historically, the Chiefs have the advantage in their series, leading 6-5, including their victory in the Super Bowl two years ago in Glendale, Arizona. In their most recent matchup on November 20, 2023, Jalen Hurts led the Eagles to a comeback victory over the Chiefs, finishing 21-17.
The Chiefs reached the AFC championship by narrowly defeating the Bills 32-29, and the Eagles secured their spot by overwhelming the Commanders 55-23 in the NFC title game. Analyzing the teams’ statistics, the Chiefs rank 16th overall in offense, with their rushing ranked 22nd and passing 14th; however, they hold the 15th position in scoring. Their defense, on the other hand, ranks 9th overall, with a strong rushing defense at 8th and scoring sitting at 4th. The Eagles’ offense is more formidable, coming in 8th overall, boasting the 2nd-best rushing attack, but struggling at passing with a ranking of 29th. Defensively, Philadelphia has been exceptional, ranking 1st overall, 10th against the run, and also 1st in passing while allowing just 2nd in scoring.
Turning to player highlights, Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes has had a solid season, particularly in the second half, throwing 13 touchdown passes without any interceptions since a mid-season loss to the Bills. His playoff statistics include 1,071 yards and seven touchdown passes over his four Super Bowl appearances. On the Eagles’ side, running back Saquon Barkley set a franchise record during the regular season with 2,005 rushing yards and is hitting his stride in the playoffs, averaging 147.3 yards over three games while scoring five touchdowns on just 66 attempts.
A crucial area to monitor will be the battle between the Chiefs’ defensive line and the Eagles’ offensive line. Kansas City’s Chris Jones and Tershawn Wharton, along with defensive ends George Karlaftis and Mike Danna, will need to handle not only Barkley’s runs but also apply pressure on Jalen Hurts when he drops back to pass—especially during critical short-yardage situations, where the Chiefs will aim to stop Philadelphia’s effective “tush push” play.
In terms of injuries, the Chiefs’ WR Skyy Moore is the only player limited in practice this week, as he is on injured reserve due to an abdominal injury, making his participation unlikely. As for the Eagles, despite hamstring issues, WR DeVonta Smith, DT Jalen Carter (illness), and RB Kenny Gainwell (concussion/knee) were limited but are anticipated to play in the Super Bowl. DE Brandon Graham, who has been dealing with an elbow injury, is also expected to return from IR.
Historically, the Chiefs are making a bid for their third consecutive Super Bowl title, which would be a first in NFL history. They previously defeated the Eagles 38-35 at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. This matchup marks only the second instance where two teams have met in the Super Bowl twice within a three-year frame, following the Bills and Cowboys in the early 1990s. Additionally, it is noteworthy that the Chiefs are the first team to play in five Super Bowls within a six-year period, seeking their fifth title overall.
On the records front, Chiefs’ head coach Andy Reid is about to break Bill Belichick’s record for the most postseason games coached, with his current total being 45. Mahomes has set a Chiefs postseason record for rushing yards, while he also continues to chase various playoff records, including for touchdowns and MVP awards. Simultaneously, the Eagles set multiple franchise and league records this season, showing a dominant rushing attack and a robust defense.
This upcoming Super Bowl is shaping up to be a thrilling clash, with both teams bringing impressive statistics and noteworthy players into the game. The Chiefs and Eagles are both poised to leave it all on the field in their attempt to claim the coveted Lombardi Trophy.
