The Kansas City Chiefs are back in the AFC Championship Game for the fifth consecutive year.
The main reason for their success over the years has been the play of Patrick Mahomes.
Kansas City would not be in this position without the elite play of their quarterback.
But, in the Divisional round win over the Jacksonville Jaguars, Mahomes suffered an ankle injury.
He was forced to leave the game for a short period but eventually returned despite being hobbled.
You could tell Mahomes was having trouble moving, as his mobility was hindered.
But, he was still able to lead the Chiefs to win in the game.
There is no question Mahomes will be on the field for the AFC Championship Game this weekend.
He is doing whatever is necessary this week to be as close to 100% as possible for game time.
Patrick Mahomes wants to push it this week each day, make sure he doesn’t aggravate it, but wants to keep testing it. He’s been getting treatment consistently since Saturday night. He hasn’t been home much expect to really sleep.
—James Palmer (@JamesPalmerTV) January 25, 2023
Surprisingly enough, the Chiefs are underdogs for this home game against the Cincinnati Bengals.
The Bengals already beat Kansas City earlier in the year and they beat them in last year’s AFC Championship.
The rematch this weekend should be a great battle between two of the best quarterbacks in the NFL.
It will come down to how healthy Mahomes is, and if he can move around sufficiently.
The worst thing that could happen for the Chiefs is a Mahomes re-injury.
As long as he is on the field, the Chiefs have a good chance to win the game.
It will be interesting to see how the Bengals can pressure Mahomes and force him to move on his ankle.
That could ultimately be the difference in the game.