Mahomes vs. Burrow: Reigniting the Chiefs-Bengals Rivalry in 2025
The Kansas City Chiefs and the Cincinnati Bengals. The names alone evoke images of high-stakes clashes, dazzling quarterback play, and a rivalry that has quickly become one of the NFL’s most captivating. As we look ahead to the 2025 season, the anticipation is palpable. Will Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs reassert their dominance, or will Joe Burrow and the Bengals continue their ascent to the top of the AFC?
A Rivalry Forged in Fire
The Chiefs and Bengals rivalry is a relatively new one, but it has quickly become one of the most intense in the NFL. Unlike many NFL rivalries, the Bengals and the Chiefs are in different divisions; the Bengals are in the AFC North and the Chiefs in the AFC West. The rivalry truly ignited in the 2021 season when Joe Burrow led the Bengals to an upset victory over Mahomes and the Chiefs in Week 17, 34-31. This victory propelled the Bengals into the playoffs, where they would once again face the Chiefs in the AFC Championship game. In a thrilling overtime battle, the Bengals emerged victorious, securing their first Super Bowl appearance in over three decades.
The Chiefs, however, exacted revenge in the 2023 AFC Championship, narrowly defeating the Bengals 23-20 in a game that was decided by a late field goal. This victory propelled the Chiefs to their second Super Bowl title in four years, solidifying their status as the team to beat in the AFC.
The Quarterback Duel: Mahomes vs. Burrow
At the heart of this rivalry are two of the NFL’s brightest young stars: Patrick Mahomes and Joe Burrow. Mahomes, with his improvisational brilliance and unparalleled arm talent, has already established himself as one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time. Burrow, known for his poise, accuracy, and leadership, has quickly ascended to the upper echelon of NFL quarterbacks.
In 2024, Joe Burrow completed more than 70% of his passes for league highs in passing yards (4,918) and passing touchdowns (43). StatMuse reports that since 2024, Burrow has a passer rating of 108.5 with 4,918 yards, 43 touchdowns and 9 interceptions in 17 games. He was also selected to play in his second Pro Bowl, and has won his second Comeback Player of the Year award.
Patrick Mahomes has a passer rating of 93.3 with 4,186 yards, 27 touchdowns and 11 interceptions in 17 games since 2024.
Their head-to-head matchups have been nothing short of legendary, with both quarterbacks showcasing their exceptional skills and unwavering determination. Burrow is 2-3 against Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs. They have already met twice in the playoffs, with one win going to Burrow and the other to Mahomes.
2025 Season Outlook
As the 2025 season approaches, both the Chiefs and the Bengals are poised to contend for the Super Bowl. The Chiefs, led by Mahomes and coach Andy Reid, are looking to bounce back after a Super Bowl loss last year. Sky Sports reports that the Chiefs sought to address their most pressing concern by drafting first-round left tackle Josh Simmons in the first round, while extending star guard Trey Smith. The Bengals, with Burrow at the helm and weapons like Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, are determined to make another deep playoff run.
However, some analysts are not sold on the Bengals, with Good Morning Football releasing their AFC Playoff predictions for the 2025 season on Tuesday, predicting that the Bengals will miss the playoffs for a third-straight season.
The Tactical Chess Match
Beyond the individual brilliance of Mahomes and Burrow, the Chiefs-Bengals rivalry is also defined by the tactical chess match between their respective coaching staffs. Andy Reid, known for his innovative offensive schemes and play-calling prowess, constantly seeks to exploit defensive weaknesses and create mismatches. On the other side, Zac Taylor, the Bengals’ head coach, has proven to be an adept strategist, crafting game plans that maximize Burrow’s strengths and neutralize the Chiefs’ potent offense.
The Impact of Key Players
While the quarterback duel is the focal point, the Chiefs-Bengals rivalry is also shaped by the contributions of other key players. For the Chiefs, Travis Kelce remains a vital target in the passing game, while Chris Jones anchors the defensive line. The Bengals boast a dynamic receiving duo in Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, and their defense features playmakers like Trey Hendrickson.
Reigniting the Rivalry in 2025
The 2025 season promises to be another chapter in the Chiefs-Bengals saga. While the schedule indicates that the Cincinnati Bengals and Kansas City Chiefs will not play each other in the 2025-26 regular season, they could meet in the playoffs. The matchups between Mahomes and Burrow are always circled on the calendar, and fans eagerly anticipate the next clash between these two AFC powerhouses.
The Chiefs and Bengals rivalry is more than just a series of games; it’s a clash of cultures, a battle of wills, and a showcase of the NFL’s brightest stars. As the 2025 season unfolds, all eyes will be on Kansas City and Cincinnati, as these two teams continue to redefine what it means to be a modern NFL rivalry.