Mahomes vs. Allen: Why Every Chiefs-Bills Matchup Feels Like a Playoff Game Preview
When the Kansas City Chiefs and the Buffalo Bills face off, it’s more than just another game on the NFL schedule. It’s a clash of titans, a duel between two of the league’s most electrifying quarterbacks: Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen. Their encounters have become legendary, filled with high stakes, incredible plays, and nail-biting finishes. It’s no wonder every Mahomes vs. Allen matchup feels like a playoff game preview.
The Mahomes-Allen rivalry is the modern version of Brady vs. Manning. These two quarterbacks are not only competing against each other on the field but also pushing each other to reach new heights. As Mahomes himself said, great rivalries come with playing each other every year, both in the regular season and the playoffs.
A Tale of Two Records
The head-to-head record between Mahomes and Allen tells an interesting story. As of today, January 27, 2025, the series is tied 4-4. However, there’s a significant split between regular season and playoff games. Allen holds a 4-1 advantage in regular season matchups, while Mahomes dominates in the playoffs with a 3-0 record.
This disparity highlights the different dynamics at play. In the regular season, Allen’s Bills have consistently found ways to defeat Mahomes’ Chiefs. However, when the pressure intensifies in the playoffs, Mahomes elevates his game to another level, leading his team to victory each time.
Playoff Showdowns: A History of Thrillers
The playoff history between Mahomes and Allen is filled with unforgettable moments. Their duels have produced some of the most thrilling games in recent NFL history, including the now-infamous 2021 AFC Divisional Round matchup.
- 2020 AFC Championship: The Chiefs defeated the Bills 38-24, securing their spot in Super Bowl LV. Mahomes threw for 325 yards and three touchdowns, while Allen had 287 passing yards, two touchdowns, and one interception.
- 2021 AFC Divisional Round: In a game that will forever be etched in NFL lore, the Chiefs edged out the Bills 42-36 in overtime. This game featured four lead changes and 25 points scored in the final two minutes of regulation. Allen threw for 329 yards and four touchdowns, but Mahomes led a 44-yard drive in 13 seconds to set up a game-tying field goal, ultimately winning the game in overtime.
- 2023 AFC Divisional Round: The Chiefs won another close one, defeating the Bills 27-24. Mahomes was efficient, while Allen contributed with his legs, but key errors from the Bills proved costly.
- 2024 AFC Championship: The Chiefs beat the Bills 32-29. Mahomes had two touchdowns, and the Bills season ended on a failed 4th down play.
These playoff clashes have not only been exciting but have also showcased the incredible talent and competitiveness of both quarterbacks. The high stakes and intense pressure bring out the best in Mahomes and Allen, resulting in performances that solidify their status as elite players.
Breaking Down the Quarterbacks
Patrick Mahomes: Mahomes is known for his incredible arm talent, improvisational skills, and ability to make jaw-dropping plays. He has a knack for extending plays, finding open receivers, and delivering accurate passes from any angle. Mahomes’ playoff record speaks for itself, as he consistently elevates his game when it matters most. Since Week 11, Mahomes has thrown 12 touchdowns and no interceptions, leading the Chiefs to a 7-0 record.
Josh Allen: Allen possesses a rare combination of size, athleticism, and arm strength. He can make every throw on the field and is also a dangerous runner, often using his legs to extend plays and pick up crucial first downs. Allen’s ability to create on the run and make difficult throws under pressure makes him a constant threat to opposing defenses. Allen’s 313.9 offensive yards per game are the most by a quarterback in NFL playoff history.
The Impact on Their Teams
The Mahomes-Allen rivalry has not only defined their individual careers but has also shaped the fortunes of their respective teams. The Chiefs and Bills have consistently been among the top contenders in the AFC, and their matchups have often determined playoff seeding and Super Bowl aspirations.
The Chiefs, led by Mahomes, have established themselves as a dynasty, with multiple Super Bowl appearances and victories. Their success has made them the team to beat in the AFC, and every opponent knows they must bring their A-game to have a chance.
The Bills, with Allen at the helm, have emerged as a perennial playoff contender. While they have yet to reach the Super Bowl, they have consistently challenged the Chiefs for AFC supremacy. The Bills’ success has made them a team that no opponent can take lightly, and their games against the Chiefs are always circled on the calendar.
A Rivalry for the Ages
The Mahomes vs. Allen rivalry has all the ingredients of a classic: two supremely talented quarterbacks, high-stakes matchups, and a history of thrilling finishes. As long as these two players remain at the top of their game, every Chiefs-Bills matchup will continue to feel like a playoff game preview, captivating fans and shaping the landscape of the NFL.